Where To Stay In Ely, Minnesota - Updated 2024

Anne Marie
Anne Marie 
Updated
| 6 min read

There are just a handful of places in the United States where you can experience unspoiled natural beauty. Ely, Minnesota, a small town located in the northern part of the state, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re thinking of a remote and rustic vacation, but it certainly should be added to the list! Ely is known as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This untouched preserve is the largest protected wilderness west of the American Rockies and is full of forests and over 1,500 miles (2,414 km) of waterways which can be explored by canoe. You can also explore the wilderness on foot by hiking one of the many trails that pass near or through Ely, including the picturesque Echo Trail and Trezona Trail, which passes through the old iron ore mines which brought settlers to the area. If you are daunted by visiting Minnesota during the cold months, reconsider a winter visit: frozen lakes and snowy trails provide ample opportunities for snowmobiling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. Ely is rustic, but not so rustic that you can’t find a great accommodation for your trip. Read on for some picks of where to stay in Ely, Minnesota.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on February 06, 2024.

Hotel

1. Grand Ely Lodge (from USD 159)

Experience the beautiful wilderness of Minnesota the way it was meant to be at the Grand Ely Lodge. This stunning accommodation combines the luxury of a hotel with the coziness of a rustic cabin and the fun of an all-ages summer camp. Rooms are outfitted with comfortable furnishings, and some include a seating area and even bunk beds. Take advantage of amenities like the on-site restaurants, where kids under age 10 always eat free, the indoor pool, and the fitness center with a sauna. The lakefront location provides stunning panoramas as well as lots of nearby activities. No matter what season you visit, there will be tons of options: rent a boat at the resort’s full-service marina in the summer; hike nearby trails to see foliage in the fall; venture out on snowshoes or cross country skis in winter; and visit the International Wolf Center and North American Bear Center nearby to learn about local wildlife in the spring.

Stayed at this property?

Grand Ely Lodge

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 400 N. Pioneer Road
2.68 km (1.7 mi) from International Wolf Center

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna Fitness centre

Houses

2. Chic, minimalist getaway (from USD 180)

You’ll feel perfectly at home in this Ely Airbnb that has the perfect balance of modern minimalist design and cozy furnishings. The home has two bedrooms which can sleep up to six guests. Upstairs there is a full bathroom with a claw-foot tub perfect for soaking in after a day of sightseeing. Downstairs is a living room, dining room, kitchen, and sun room, providing plenty of space for everyone to spread out! The fenced-in backyard is the perfect place to enjoy a warm evening, with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit you can use if it gets chilly. The home is within walking distance to shops and restaurants and just a few miles from an entry point to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area preserve.

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
2.46 km (1.6 mi) from International Wolf Center
200 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice amenities including snacks and full cabinets for cooking direct tv and a very clean house
the beds were like sleeping on a cloud was fun to wake up to snow
interior has a nice size kitchen with island
the kitchen was impressively equipped the linens were high quality and so soft and beds were very comfortable
beds were firm and comfortable
Cleanliness:
clean design and clean
neat and clean pleasantly responsive
blake’s ely house is very clean and modern
the house was sparkling clean and we loved the radiator heat
house is extremely well appointed and very clean
Host:
blake was an outstanding host and the home had every possible amenity that i wanted/needed
blake's place was lovely and he was an attentive host
blake was a great host and check-in was a breeze
blake and ashley are super nice and the most responsive airbnb hosts we have ever worked with
blake is a very thoughtful super host
Location:
close to ely shopping and fun activities near by
great location—walking distance to everything in town
great house and great location in ely
great location in ely as well
good value for the price nice central location in ely
Read more reviews

3. Cozy cottage near downtown and Trezona Trail

This charming little cottage is the perfect size for two to three guests, making it an ideal pick for couples, small families, or even a solo traveler who doesn’t need a ton of extra space. Though it’s small, it has everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay and then some. Upstairs is a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and small living room. Downstairs in the basement there are even more great amenities like laundry and a game room! The host provides locally roasted coffee from Northern Grounds so you won’t have to worry about running out first thing for supplies. Guests are also welcome to visit the Northern Grounds coffee shop for a free cup each morning of their stay!

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
2.99 km (1.9 mi) from International Wolf Center
78 reviews  
Entire house 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
has a nice basement with wifi so we could watch movies netflix etc
the bed is comfortable and so is all the other furniture in the house
it would have been nice to have a small dining table with chairs
the cozy cottage was very comfortable and quiet
super well laid out and has great light and is cozy
Cleanliness:
clean and comfortable and cozy
this house was very clean and was very attractive
it was very clean exactly as described and very smartly laid out
clean cindy has gone above and beyond expectations
the house is on the older side but nicely redone and very clean
Host:
the host cindy is super attentive if you need something
cindy was really responsive and helpful
cindy was an excellent host and made us feel welcome in the rental
Location:
the location was fantastic
cute little place near the lake a great trail close by
super close to shopping and restaurants
great location to downtown and bike and hiking paths
it was close to restaurants and a great walking path
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4. Adorable two-bedroom home in downtown Ely (from USD 154)

Another cozy pick is this small home close to downtown. It might look tiny from the outside but it has two bedrooms which can sleep up to six guests. The first floor also has a full-equipped kitchen and a living room so you will never feel cramped. This small house is also big on technology: it has an outdoor security camera and a smart deadbolt which works with smartphones for secure, keyless entry. You can also listen to music on the Sonos speakers and adjust the temperature to your comfort with a Nest thermostat.

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
2.92 km (1.9 mi) from International Wolf Center
168 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 4 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was nice to have air conditioning in the summer
this kitchen table can sit four but it's a tight fit
the two bedrooms are up a steep set of steps but were roomy and comfortable
having laundry on the main floor and a nice deck outside were some great features
the home is super basic but linens were clean and wifi and television worked well
Cleanliness:
everything was clean and comfortable
it was a very clean cozy house
comfortable clean and close to ely shops and restaurants our dog loved the yard
very clean and a fully stalked kitchen
the house was clean and comfortable and had everything we needed
Host:
host was great and responsive communicator
the host was super nice and responsive
friendly neighbors too thank you aubrey
aubrey is an absolutely amazing host
aubrey was a great host for my family and i staying in ely
Location:
good location walking distance to everything
location is perfect
great location walking distance everything downtown
great central location close to downtown shopping
great location in central ely
Read more reviews

5. Lovely house rental close to the Taconite Trail (from USD 185)

If you’re visiting Ely in the winter, this house rental would be the perfect pick for winter sports enthusiasts! The house is located just two blocks from the Taconite Trail, a popular route for snowmobile riders in the winter. If cross-country skiing is your sport, use the waxing station in the garage during your stay. Even if you’re not into winter sports or you’re visiting in the summer, this home is a great option. It has three bedrooms that can host up to seven guests. Enjoy access to a kitchen with lots of appliances, a family room and laundry in the basement, and two and a half bathrooms so no one ever has to wait!

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
2.87 km (1.8 mi) from International Wolf Center
123 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 4 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the deck in the backyard is perfect for morning coffee and the kitchen is well equipped
kitchen was very well stocked for our cooking needs and grill was great too
there were 7 of us and we were very comfortable
plenty of space lots of beds to accommodate everyone and lots of cute touches
well equipped house; pretty much everything needed for a comfortable stay - nice quiet neighborhood
Cleanliness:
excellent place to stay clean
home was very clean and had great sleeping areas
everything was exactly as expected from the listing and the house was very clean and had everything advertised
the house was just as presented - clean comfortable well stocked and quiet
we had a great stay at the white house clean place with plenty of room
Host:
the host was responsive friendly and accommodating
highly recommend excellent host and the accommodations exceeded our expectations
heather was very helpful in answering questions and providing information and recommendations about local things
heather was very informative and friendly
Location:
great location to downtown ely
it has an excellent location within easy walking distance of "downtown
close to down town and local attractions
walking distance to main street the house is in really nice condition
easy walk to main street ely to check out the fun local spots
Read more reviews

Other vacation rental options

6. Charming Burntside Lake cabin (from USD 144)

Take full advantage of the rural wilderness surrounding Ely by renting out this charming cabin. You’ll be peacefully secluded in a setting of rustic woods and the lakefront that are just steps away. The sandy shoreline and docks are both perfect locations to launch one of the complimentary canoes or kayaks. You can also take in the natural surroundings in a relaxing way by grilling on the patio or sitting around the fire pit. If the conditions are right, you can even see the northern lights by night! However, you won’t be completely cut off from human contact: the cabin has WiFi and satellite TV, and is just a short drive from downtown Ely.

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
6.64 km (4.2 mi) from International Wolf Center
230 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 3 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
all the beds and the couch are comfortable for sleeping
wifi worked better than expected for a remote cabin
the cabin is clean and comfortable with nice amenities and gorgeous view of the lake
generous amenities include kayaks a canoe and really well-functioning wifi
bed and bedding was fantastic couch is now on my list to buy shower was great
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable home
really nice and clean cabin
it was very clean and comfortable
very comfortable and clean
the cabin is simple clean uncluttered attractive
Host:
the hosts were lovely people
the host is very responsive
kelly was a great host thank you so much
owner was very responsive and nice
the hosts are very responsive and make sure ones stay is perfect
Location:
excellent location for snowmobiling
great location and super comfortable
beautiful location and comfortable lodging
very nice place and location
great place and location will definitely book again
Read more reviews

7. Gorgeous restored abode (from USD 200)

This gorgeous cabin has all the amenities of a modern home in a charming, rustic space! The cabin dates back to the 1800s but was moved to its new space in 1936 and has been fully renovated with all the comforts you’ll need. The rich wooden interior is adorned with cozy furnishings like a wood stove. It can sleep up to six guests in one private bedroom and an upstairs sleeping loft with a queen-size and two double beds. Outside, there is a patio with a grill where you can prepare an al fresco meal. From the interior and immediate surroundings, the cabin appears to be deep in the wilderness but is actually close to downtown Ely and conveniently within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
3.12 km (2.0 mi) from International Wolf Center
158 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 6 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
even my oldest daughter who barely share her room loved us sleeping together in the loft
everything was well thought out and every room was a delight to be in
we fell in love with the beautiful log cabin interior and cozy pine walls
colleen’s cabin was amazing the decor and overall atmosphere was very cozy
Cleanliness:
very clean and cozy cabin
very clean and well maintained
super cozy and clean cabin feel
colleen's place was cozy clean and comfortable
very thoughtful host immaculately clean and charming inside
Host:
the host is quick and efficient at responding to any questions
colleen is a wonderful caring host
colleen our host was extremely easy to communicate with
gas fireplace comfortable beds kitchen amenities and a wonderful responsive host that provided great recommendations that met our interests
colleen was great to work with and responsive to minor questions
Location:
wonderful cozy cabin close to town
beautiful rustic cabin within walking distance of downtown ely
the location was best balance of peace and walkability to restaurants/shopping
the cabin was close to downtown ely making it an easy drive to restaurants and stores
what an amazing space so close to town
Read more reviews

8. Waterfront home for six (from USD 227)

Designed to bring the outside in, this cabin is the perfect spot to experience the gorgeous nature around Ely. The cabin features huge floor-to-ceiling windows which let in the sunshine as well as the views of surrounding trees and the lake. No matter the season, you can stay cozy inside while still appreciating the natural setting. The living room is an especially nice place to take in the views, with windows on two sides, a cozy fireplace, and a cabinet full of board games. If you’d rather get outside, the host generously provides amenities for year-round activities, like snowshoes, sleds, two kayaks, and a canoe. With three bedrooms that can host up to six guests, this is a great pick for families or groups of friends.

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
4.39 km (2.8 mi) from International Wolf Center
213 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 3 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
our bed was comfortable the bathroom was large and included a washer and dryer
the kitchen is so well stocked with any appliance or gadget you might need
stunning log home with gorgeous wood paneling and kitchen cabinetry
we especially enjoyed the kitchen amenities the kayaks and the comfortable beds
views sparkly snow awesome beds fun games and the perfect place for 6 friends to hang
Cleanliness:
the cabin was clean and cozy
the space is clean and well decorated
it is a clean home and well stocked with everything imaginable
perfectly comfortable clean and felt like home
clean stylish space with gorgeous views
Host:
each time i got a helpful response within minutes
great hosts they thought of absolutely everything
hosts checked in after we arrived to make sure everything was ok and reached out throughout the stay
the loving attention to detail by the owners is evident in every room
this cabin is fabulous very family friendly and cozy the owners have thought of every little detail and amenity
Location:
the location being close to town is a huge plus as well
beautiful house in a fantastic location
i highly recommend this location without any reservations
chrissie and rich’s place is absolutely fantastic
nice location and view
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9. Rustic loft in Downtown Ely

Stay in a rustic setting in downtown Ely at this cute loft apartment. The one-room suite has wood-paneled walls and cozy furnishings like you’d find in a cabin, just condensed into a smaller space. There is still more than enough room to relax, with a dining table, living room, and kitchen for preparing meals. Four guests can stay in the loft, which has a queen bed under a single bunk and a couch where a fourth person can sleep. The loft is located right over the charming Fox & Hen Antique Shop and even has a shared garden with gazebo where you can take in the fresh Minnesota air.

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
2.94 km (1.9 mi) from International Wolf Center
29 reviews  
Entire loft 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable space with air conditioning and comfortable beds
it was a treat to have a set of board games in the room
we had a wonderful stay at the loft the beds were huge and can accommodate many people
most comfortable beds of our vacation
also the kitchen was well stocked equipment-wise - we were excited to have a rice cooker
Cleanliness:
it was very clean and the beds were pretty comfortable
the unit is fresh clean practical and orderly
the rooms were clean basic accommodations exactly as described
the place was very clean with comfortable beds and the location was great
this was a clean quiet centrally located place
Host:
the host is wonderfully helpful and quick to respond
everyone was helpful and the fresh pastries and coffee each morning were delicious
Location:
easy location to downtown ely
perfect location for a downtown stroll
great location and a cozy space
easy walk to many restaurants in ely
this is a great location in ely as it's a very walk-able town
Read more reviews

10. Conveniently located and spacious Ely home

This lovely home has the perfect location for exploring downtown Ely as well as the surrounding area. Right nearby you can find everything you’ll need like restaurants, shops, outfitters with sporting gear, and more. However, don’t worry about going out for supplies right when you check in–you’ll find complimentary pancake mix, oatmeal, and coffee, affording you a relaxing start to your first morning in town. Fuel up for days of exploring all there is to offer–with parks, lakes, and trails right outside your door, the possibilities are endless!

Stayed at this property?
Ely, Minnesota, United States
2.02 km (1.3 mi) from International Wolf Center
66 reviews  
Entire guest suite 4 Beds 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great extras like coffee and breakfast foods
nice amenities like coffee soda snacks and fixings for breakfast
each room had a combination of homey and modern furnishings and the beds were soft and comfortable
this spot was spacious clean cozy nice amenities and in a great location
Cleanliness:
clean - lots of extras
it was extremely clean and kept well
the house was clean and homely
very nice super clean
we arrived to a warm and extremely clean house
Host:
she's very responsive and made us feel at home
great host will be returning
casey is a great host
the hosts were readily available with great suggestions and tips for nearby activities and restaurants
casey was a very good host
Location:
perfect place close to ely
great location near downtown ely
great place close to shops and restaurants
good location close to downtown would stay here again
location was just a couple of blocks from the main street and a great grocery store
Read more reviews

Explore nature and then sleep in comfort

You don’t have to camp to enjoy a rustic and remote destination. Ely is full of comfortable accommodations that range from basic to luxurious. Whether you stay right in town or in a secluded spot nearby, Ely is the perfect starting point to explore northern Minnesota’s natural attractions. From summer to winter, this area is one of the few places you can see nature as it was intended–untouched by human hands and unspoiled in its beauty.

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Anne-Marie, a publishing professional by day, harbors a fervent desire to explore the world whenever she can. Though she hasn't discovered the entire globe yet, her eagerness to learn and write...Read more

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