Northern Expressions is a combination ice cream parlor and gift shop in downtown Ely. Try to choose from among the many flavors in the freezer case and then go for a homemade waffle cone, or skip the cone part altogether and opt for a highly rated root beer float. A local favorite.

Gracie’s Garden is an entirely woman-owned and locally-operated garden center in Ely, Minnesota. Founded in 2011 by Kathy Cyriacks, we are one of the largest growers of organic herbs in Northeastern Minnesota. Every year our greenhouses are filled with organic, heirloom tomatoes and vegetable starts, flowering annuals, and perennials. Nursery stock (trees and shrubs) and ornamental edibles such as raspberries, currants, blueberries, and strawberry plants are available each spring/summer/fall. You’ll find a wide array of organic fertilizers, pots, and garden tools in the potting shed. Our gift shop is filled with garden-centric gifts, pillows, napkins, tools, rain chains, soaps, books, chimes, garden art, and wrought iron metal garden structures.

We are enablers of nostalgia. Whether your pastime is downhill sledding, family time at the cabin, winter camping, ice fishing, or doing traditional work on the land, we craft the finest toboggan sleds still available. Our designs reflect the time-tested traditions of the first people in Northern Canada. Following processes handed down to our craftsman from his mentor, who was taught from his mentor before him, the 150+ techniques we embrace consistently produce sleds that last generations. Our sleds are hand-crafted, and our design reflects the time-tested traditions of the first people in Northern Canada. Our sleds have endured the punishment of daily use in the northern wilderness by those who choose to create their own trails. Don’t settle for less than the best. Own an heirloom, and start your own enduring traditions.

Family-owned retailer and manufacturer specializing in outdoor apparel such as coats, jackets, tops, pants & shorts for all ages. “Our mission is to design and make quality outdoor clothing inspired by Minnesota’s Boundary Waters and other wild places. We strive to build community by relying on local labor, paying livable wages and giving generously. We design, cut and sew all of our clothing right on the main street of Ely, MN.” Please see our website for more information, product selection and updated hours!

Portage North, formerly Kondos Outdoors was born in Ely in 1980 out of a need from outfitters requiring gear that could withstand the rigors of being on trail all season long. With a roll of fabric, some thread, and the determination of crafting the best gear, Dan and Vicki Kondos started Kondos Outdoors. For 35 years, Kondos developed the gear we all have come to love and depend on for making our wilderness experiences successful. In 2015, I took on the task of carrying that legacy forward. I grew up venturing into the Boundary Waters from the age of three and spent much of my formative years exploring the Ely wilderness. In 2017, I married my wife, Corissa, who had been guiding BWCA trips for seven years and is the director of Rock Ridge Christian Camp since 2015. We enjoy being able to take our personal experiences and knowledge and incorporatethat into how we design and build products for Portage North and share the wilderness experience with others. By bringing in state of the art cutting and sewing equipment, implementing continuous improvement philosophies, researching the best materials, and having a 1.4 million acre test lab to vet our products, we strive to craft for you the toughest gear that will last you and the next generation a lifetime. From our families to yours, Michael and Corissa Larson Shop online for: Packs, Camp Kitchens, Camp Organization, Canoe Gear, Tarps & Tents, Totes, and Commuter packs & bags.

Welcome to KJs Hardware in Ely, MN! We’re your friendly neighborhood hardware store, locally owned, and proud to be part of the True Value family. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or embarking on your first DIY project, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From expert advice to top-notch tools and products, we have everything you need to tackle any job. Swing by KJ’s Hardware today, and let us help you make your projects a breeze!