Ely, NV

Travel Guide

A series of stone structures with a clear sky and distant mountains.
A row of stone conical structures with arched openings, surrounded by sparse vegetation.
A building with a sign reading "Hotel Nevada" and neon lights.
A lakeside picnic area with a wooden deck, picnic tables, and a dock extending into the water.
A steam locomotive with "SAFETY FIRST" on the front, emitting steam, traveling on tracks with mountains in the background.

Take a trip to discover Ely's railway history, local heritage, and abundant trails for hiking and exploration.

Ely is an ideal destination for outdoor and adventure travelers. You can explore notable attractions like the Nevada Northern National Railway Museum, which highlights the region's railway history, and the Ely Renaissance Village, a cultural site that showcases local heritage. For those interested in museums, the White Pine Public Museum offers insights into the area's natural and cultural history. When it comes to outdoor activities, the Overlook Trailhead serves as a great starting point for hiking, while the Cave Creek Trailhead provides additional access to scenic trails. Nearby, Garnet Hill offers recreational opportunities in a beautiful setting.

Spend some time exploring the different areas near Ely. McGill is known for its adventure and outdoor experiences, featuring landmarks like the McGill Drugstore Museum. Similarly, Ruth offers more outdoor activities, providing a chance to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Additionally, East Ely also focuses on outdoor adventures, ensuring that you can find plenty of options for exploring the landscape.

The best time to visit Ely largely depends on your preferences. From June to September, the weather is mild and mostly dry, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities. During these months, the demand for accommodations tends to be a bit busier, particularly in June to August. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting from October to December when the crowds are lighter and you can enjoy the area at a more relaxed pace.

Hotel Nevada

Hotel Nevada

3 out of 5
501 Aultman St Ely NV
$58 nightly
The price is $65 total per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15
$65 total
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Ely. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a casino. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
Hotel Nevada
Prospector Hotel & Gambling Hall

Prospector Hotel & Gambling Hall

3.5 out of 5
1501 East Aultman Street Ely NV
$112 nightly
The price is $127 total per night from Dec 15 to Dec 16
$127 total
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Ely. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a casino. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (2,152 reviews)
"Very clean rooms and exceptional customer service. Will come again in the future."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Prospector Hotel & Gambling Hall
Bristlecone Motel

Bristlecone Motel

2.5 out of 5
700 AVENUE I Ely NV
$86 nightly
The price is $97 total per night from Dec 5 to Dec 6
$97 total
Dec 5 - Dec 6
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this motel in Ely. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,003 reviews)
"Casino and restaurant across the street."

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

Bristlecone Motel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Purple Door -FRESHLY UPGRADED AIR CONDITIONING NOW AVAILABLE-

The Purple Door -FRESHLY UPGRADED AIR CONDITIONING NOW AVAILABLE-

McGill NV
Stay at this vacation home in Ely. Enjoy laundry facilities, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attraction Mcgill Drugstore Museum ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (14 reviews)
"This was the perfect most quaint place we needed for the weekend."

Reviewed on Oct 26, 2026

The Purple Door -FRESHLY UPGRADED AIR CONDITIONING NOW AVAILABLE-
Fun & Charming 3-bed, 2-bath house with WiFi, AC and deck in delightful McGill

Fun & Charming 3-bed, 2-bath house with WiFi, AC and deck in delightful McGill

McGill NV
Stay at this vacation home in Ely. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attraction Mcgill Drugstore Museum is located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (12 reviews)
"The house was nice, clean and comfortable."

Reviewed on Oct 26, 2026

Fun & Charming 3-bed, 2-bath house with WiFi, AC and deck in delightful McGill
Charming 3-bedroom house in enchanting McGill with AC

Charming 3-bedroom house in enchanting McGill with AC

McGill NV
Stay at this vacation home in Ely. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attraction Mcgill Drugstore Museum is located nearby.
Charming 3-bedroom house in enchanting McGill with AC
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Ely attractions

Frequently asked questions

Is Ely worth visiting?
Ely is worth visiting for its unique attractions, such as the Nevada Northern National Railway Museum and the Ely Renaissance Village, offering a glimpse into local history and culture. Travelers can also enjoy varied dining experiences, with options ranging from North American to Italian cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Ely?
The best time to visit Ely is from May through September. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering a cooler experience. Travelers can enjoy a more relaxed visit during these times.
What is Ely known for?
Ely is known for its Nevada Northern National Railway Museum, which offers a glimpse into railroad history. Travelers can also explore the Ely Renaissance Village and the Mcgill Drugstore Museum. The city also features a North American food culture, providing familiar dining options.
What is a good itinerary length for Ely?
A good itinerary length for Ely is two to three days to explore attractions like the Nevada Northern National Railway Museum, Ely Renaissance Village, and Mcgill Drugstore Museum. An extended stay of four to five days allows more time to enjoy these sites and experience the Great Basin National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour. See Ely Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Ely?
In Ely, travelers can explore local history, heritage, and nearby natural wonders:


How do I plan a trip to Ely?
To plan your trip to Ely, search for places to stay on Expedia and book flights and rental cars in advance, especially during busy times. Consider activities like the Nevada Northern National Railway Museum or a Great Basin National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Ely?
In Ely you can find Italian cuisine, offering classic dishes like pasta, pizza, lasagna, and tiramisu. Travelers also have options for North American fare, Latin American flavors including Mexican dishes, Asian cuisine, and steakhouses.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Ely?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Ely by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Ely with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Ely trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Ely?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Ely can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Ely trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Ely trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Ely trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Ely trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Ely?
If it's your first trip to Ely, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Ely hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Ely hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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