Ely MN Attractions
Dorothy Molter Museum
As a private, non-profit organization representing part of the unique and rich history of northeastern Minnesota, the Dorothy Molter Museum strives to not only honor the legacy of its namesake, but also be an active, equitable and positive member of the Ely Area community and family of Minnesota museums. The museum preserves and interprets Northwoods wilderness heritage through learning opportunities inspired by Dorothy Molter, the last non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).
Ely-Winton Historical Society
The Ely-Winton Historical Society exists to collect, preserve, and display to the public, artifacts and information relating to the history of the amazing area in northern Minnesota. Through the Museum, our extensive archive of documents and photos, and various informative events throughout the year, they hope to share with you the story of the shining jewel of the Northland. The Museum and Office are open Tuesday through Friday, noon to 4:00 pm throughout the year, as well as Saturdays from noon to 4:00 pm during the Summer months.
International Wolf Center
The International Wolf Center opened the doors to its $3 million, 17,000-square-foot facility featuring the “Wolves and Humans” exhibit in June 1993. State funding of $1.2 million and $400,000 in donations from individuals and foundations paid for the expansion of the Voyageur Visitor Center in Ely. A $125,000 grant for construction and promotion of the Center was received from the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) in Eveleth, Minn. In 1998, a 3,260-square-foot addition provided a 120-seat wolf-viewing theater and more classroom, storage and laboratory space. The expansion was funded by a 1996 bonding bill in the Minnesota State Legislature. The International Wolf Center advances the survival of wolf populations by teaching about wolves, their relationship to wildlands and the human role in their future.
North American Bear Center
The North American Bear Center is the only black bear and wildlife educational facility of its kind. Dedicated to replacing old myths with facts, it lets people learn from the bears themselves about bear behavior, ecology, and their relations with humans. Great things await you inside!
Soudan Underground Mine State Park
This Minnesota State Park features Minnesota's first and deepest underground iron mine. One-hour guided tours will take you 2,400 feet down and more than 100 years into Minnesota's past. Put on a hard hat and venture a half-mile into the earth. You'll gain a new appreciation for the lives of early miners, and come to understand the impact of mining on the lives of northeastern Minnesota settlers. Park hours: Daily from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. Office hours: May through September: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; October through April: Weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Winter office entrance located at 1379 Stuntz Bay Road, Soudan, MN