While Minnesota is known for having many things to do in its bustling twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, its smaller and quieter towns are also home to an underrated national park with Northern Lights, the best waterway trails in Voyageurs National Park, and the best views of Lake Superior on a domed train.
Among these towns, one has a unique international vibe that is hard to find anywhere else in the state. Located near the edge of the Boundary Waters and surrounded by forest, Ely blends Midwestern and Finnish cultural influences, setting it apart from typical Minnesota destinations.
Named the “Finland of the US,” Ely feels familiar and new simultaneously. With its forested landscape, Finnish history, and a lifestyle centered around the outdoors, visitors to Ely can experience Finland without ever leaving American soil.
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Why Ely, Minnesota Is The “Finland of the US”
Ely is a town that mirrors Finland in more ways than one
Ely, Minnesota, got its nickname as the “Finland of the US” because of its similarities to the country’s landscape and lifestyle. Located just outside Lake County near the Ontario border, Ely is surrounded by dense forests of varying terrain and clear lakes, which mirror Finland’s landscape.
Like Finland, Ely is known for outdoor activities like canoeing and hiking. Both places have a strong connection to nature, perfect for those seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of big-city living.
Beyond its landscape, Ely has a strong Finnish-American history. Most Finnish immigrants came to Minnesota by boat between 1902 and 1906 to escape conscription into the Russian Army under Tsar Nicholas II. Many settled in towns like Ely, finding work through friends and family members.
Today, the fabric of Finnish culture remains, with Ely hosting Finnish-inspired celebrations and events like the Nordic Beard Festival and the St. Urho’s Day Celebration.
Saunas, a staple of Finland, are also popular in Ely. Many residents and visitors flock to the town’s saunas to relax and have an authentic Finnish cultural experience.
Some of the most popular saunas in town are
Many of the town’s hotels and inns have saunas available for guests.
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Things To Do In Ely, Minnesota
The town’s focus is on outdoor activities and nature education
Ely, Minnesota, is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and those wanting to experience the outdoors. The nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), which spans over a million acres, offers many canoeing, kayaking, and camping opportunities.
Its hiking trails also allow visitors to explore nature on foot, enjoy scenic views, and spot wildlife like moose, bald eagles, and gray wolves.
The most notable trails in Ely include
Another must-see attraction in Ely is the International Wolf Center. The family-friendly center features an Exhibit pack of four gray wolves named Grayson, Rieka, Caz, and Blackstone.
Beyond the center’s educational program, it also offers field trips into wolf country, where visitors can learn about wolf research from a closer perspective.
Winter Hours (October 21-May 23):
10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Sundays
Summer Hours (May 24-October 20):
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When Is The Best Time To Visit The “Finland Of The US” In Ely, Minnesota?
With its diverse outdoor activities and attractions, Ely is a great year-round destination
The best time to visit Ely, Minnesota, depends on the type of experience you want to have. Each season has different activities, making it a great year-round destination.
Those who love winter landscapes should visit between December and February. During these months, Ely is covered in white snow, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
Visitors can try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding, a popular activity reminiscent of the Finnish culture.
Minnesota is also one of the best places in the US to see the Northern Lights during winter. On a clear night, Ely has a great vantage point from which to see the colorful lights in the sky.
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The snow begins to melt in Ely during the spring months of March through May. This season is perfect for those who enjoy mild weather that stays relatively cool. These months are ideal for hiking and early-season fishing. Migrating birds also return to the area, making spring one of the best times for birdwatchers.
In summer, between June and August, the town is busier. With more sunlight during the day, the town has more festivals and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the warmer weather by canoeing or fishing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
In the fall months of September through November, Ely’s forests change colors, boasting rich red and golden hues. Visitors can walk on trails among the beautiful scenery. The atmosphere also tends to be quieter than in spring and summer, perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway.
Months:
Activities:
December-February
Skiing, Snowshoeing, Dog Sledding, Northern Lights
March-May
Birdwatching, Hiking, Fishing
June-August
Festivals, Canoeing, Fishing
September-November
Hiking, Fall Foliage
Irrespective of the season, Ely in Minnesota is a fun Finnish destination in America and an entry point for campers and canoers into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, with The International Wolf Center nearby. It is aptly called the “Finland of the US.”