Vacation Ideas

Depending on who you ask, they might give Ely one of three titles: Canoe Capital of the World, Sled Dog Capital of the World or Coolest Small Town in America. They're all right.

Imagine canoeing for miles (or days!) without seeing a cell tower, an airplane or a person other than the ones you came with. Imagine flying through the snow, cozy under warm blankets, on the back of a sled pulled by the happiest dogs you've ever seen. And regardless of when you decide to visit, Ely will always be a cool place to check out. Our downtown has recently had a renaissance — new businesses have opened, others have renovated, and everything shines a little brighter under the Ely Historic State Theater’s re-lit marquee.

But, we're not just about the "silent sports" up here. A large percentage of our lakes are motorized, so trailer your fishing boat or rent one from the resort where you're staying. We also love to snowmobile and off-road. ATVs have a soft spot in Ely’s heart with the nearly completed Prospector’s Loop that will connect five communities to Bear Head Lake State Park, Lake Vermilion State Park, and Lake County Regional ATV Trail.

Vacation ideas are as countless as the trees in the forest surrounding us. To get you started, we have compiled a few local favorites to inspire you. Share your favorite Ely itinerary at #visitElyMN!