Ely NevadaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ely, Nevada.
1. Nevada Northern Railway Museum
HISTORIC RAILWAY EXPERIENCE
The Nevada Northern Railway Museum features the original Ghost Train of Old Ely, a working steam engine passenger train. Visitors can travel the historic tracks from Ely to the Robinson mining district west of town. The museum offers a glimpse into Nevada's rich railroad history with well-preserved facilities and equipment.
2. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
HISTORIC MINING STRUCTURES
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park preserves six large beehive-shaped ovens used in the late 19th century for silver processing. These unique stone structures stand over 30 feet tall and offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into Nevada's mining past. The park also offers hiking trails, camping, and picnic areas in a scenic desert landscape.
3. Ely Renaissance Village
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
Ely Renaissance Village showcases the history of the ethnic groups that came to the area to work for Kennecott and its railroads. The village consists of a general store and several shotgun houses displaying cultural artifacts and historical exhibits. Visitors can experience the diverse heritage that shaped Ely's development throughout the years.
4. Garnet Hill
GEM HUNTING ADVENTURE
Garnet Hill is a popular rockhounding site where visitors can search for and collect garnets. The site is considered an adventure to find but rewards those who make the effort with the opportunity to discover beautiful gemstones. Visitors are advised to bring proper tools and water for this outdoor activity.
5. Success Loop
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
Success Loop offers a scenic drive through the mountains surrounding Ely with breathtaking views of the landscape. Located just a short hike up the hill from either the Jailhouse Motel or the Hotel Nevada, this natural attraction is easily accessible. The loop provides numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and connecting with nature.
6. Great Basin National Park
NATURAL WONDER GATEWAY
Great Basin National Park preserves over 79,000 acres of high mountain landscape near Ely. The park features hot desert valleys that meet mountain ranges and peaks above 13,000 feet with abundant flora and fauna. As one of the nation's least visited and newest national parks, it offers a pristine wilderness experience with hiking trails, ancient bristlecone pines, and the spectacular Lehman Caves.
7. Hotel Nevada
HISTORIC GAMING DESTINATION
Hotel Nevada is a historic six-story hotel in downtown Ely that opened in 1929 and was the tallest building in Nevada well into the 1940s. This landmark establishment was the state's first fire-proof building and today offers an on-site bar, restaurant, and casino. The hotel provides the perfect mix of historic character and modern comfort, including complimentary breakfast for guests.
8. Prospector Hotel & Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND LODGING
The Prospector Hotel & Casino is a popular lodging and entertainment venue in Ely. The establishment features an onsite restaurant, casino, and cocktail lounge for visitors to enjoy. It serves as a convenient base for travelers exploring Ely and the surrounding attractions.
9. Central Theatre
CLASSIC CINEMA EXPERIENCE
The Central Theatre is a beloved historic movie theater in Ely offering film screenings in a nostalgic setting. Visitors appreciate the venue for its classic charm and community atmosphere. The theater is noted for its interesting displays, including cave bear bones that are particularly popular with guests.
10. Jailhouse Casino
THEMED GAMING VENUE
The Jailhouse Casino is a unique themed gaming establishment in Ely. The casino offers various gambling options in a distinctive jail-themed environment. Located in a convenient downtown location, it provides both entertainment and a quirky atmosphere for visitors.
11. Ely Renaissance Society Murals
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
The Ely Renaissance Society has facilitated more than twenty outdoor murals and sculptures in the downtown area. Artists from all over the world have been commissioned to create images of the area's fascinating history using different art styles. These public artworks create an engaging outdoor gallery that tells the story of Ely's rich cultural heritage.
12. Holiday Inn Express & Suites
MODERN COMFORT HUB
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers rooms and suites at affordable prices in Ely. Amenities include an indoor heated pool, fitness center, and whirlpool for guests to enjoy. The hotel serves as the perfect base to explore Ely and the surrounding area with its comfortable accommodations.
13. Cave Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Cave Lake State Park is a recreational area near Ely offering fishing, boating, hiking, and camping opportunities. The park centers around a 32-acre reservoir surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. During winter, the park hosts the popular White Pine Fire and Ice Show featuring ice sculptures and fireworks.
14. White Pine Public Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The White Pine Public Museum preserves and displays the rich history of Ely and White Pine County. Exhibits feature mining artifacts, Native American items, pioneer relics, and natural history specimens from the region. The museum provides visitors with insight into the area's development from its earliest days to the present.
15. Lehman Caves Visitor Center
UNDERGROUND WONDER GATEWAY
The Lehman Caves Visitor Center serves as the gateway to exploring the spectacular marble cave system within Great Basin National Park. Guided tours take visitors through chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and rare shield formations. The center also provides educational exhibits about cave formation and the unique ecosystem found within these natural wonders.