Since 1976, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness has been the voice for clean water and wilderness. Our vision for the future of this national treasure lies at the intersection of people, communities and wilderness. Visit our website to discover more about this national treasure, from how to plan your next (or first) visit to how you can help preserve the wilderness for future generations.

Vintage and modern kitchen gadgets for foodies, home cooks, people who love to cook, and people who love to eat. Bakeware, cutlery, cabin-ware, and more. It’s a new store every week! If you’re visiting Ely this store is a must see!

At Voyageur Outward Bound School we believe in the potential of every individual. We believe when people discover strength of character, an aptitude for leadership and a desire to serve, it has a positive impact on their lives and the lives of those around them. And that discovery has the power to make the world a better place. Outward Bound changes lives through challenge and discovery. We offer life-changing expeditions for everyone, regardless of social or economic status, race or gender, from struggling teens, to first generation urban youth, adults in transition or veterans integrating back into life outside of active duty. For over 50 years, we have been changing lives by using the wilderness as a classroom to provide unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, self-reliance, confidence, teamwork and compassion. Our full portfolio of programs ranges from part-day programming to wilderness programs lasting a full semester. Canoeing, camping, rock climbing, backpacking, skiing, snowshoeing, dog-sledding and urban adventure programs serve as the educational vehicle for social and emotional learning and character development. In all of VOBS programs, tight-knit groups are led through sequenced challenges designed to discover and improve skills such as emotion management, teamwork, initiative, problem solving, responsibility and empathy. This learning occurs for both the individual and the group. Voyageur Outward Bound School students experience the benefit of personal challenge and the positive effects of nature as they build critical life skills.

The Dorothy Molter Museum is a seasonally operating, historic museum focusing on the life and legacy of Ely Area icon, Dorothy Molter. Click Here to View Visitation Updates and Temporary Hours of Operation Through tours of Dorothy’s original cabins, self-guided exploration of our outdoor, natural areas, community programming and a wide selection of mission-driven retail merchandise (including our own Isle of Pines Root Beer), visitors will leave with an understanding of who Dorothy was, how she lived in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and a greater appreciation for the Ely Area’s natural and cultural history. With the uncertainty of future public health initiatives and guidelines, the operation of the Museum will be significantly different this season. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate these uncharted waters. The Dorothy Molter Museum preserves and interprets Northwoods wilderness heritage through learning opportunities inspired by Dorothy Molter, the last non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). As a private, non-profit organization representing part of the unique and rich history of northeastern Minnesota, the Dorothy Molter Museum strives to not only honor the legacy of its namesake but also, be an active and positive member of the Ely Area community and family of Minnesota museums. Through tours in three of Dorothy’s original cabins, self-guided exploration of our outdoor, natural areas, community events, public programs, and a wide selection of mission-driven retail merchandise (including our own Isle of Pines Root Beer), visitors will leave with an understanding of who Dorothy was, how she lived in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and a greater appreciation for the Ely Area’s natural and cultural history.

We engage young people ages 18-40 through project management and social entrepreneurship. We meet the second Tuesday of every month, 7pm Grand Ely Lodge.

Grab a cold beverage, enjoy a savory sandwich, and take in the view of Shagawa Lake indoors or from the deck—it’s a great place to converse with guests and locals alike. Antlers Lounge is a relaxed Ely, MN bar that serves up the town’s best wine list, specialty drinks, and most impressive lake views. Order one of our four beers on tap or choose one of our wide range of bottled brews, including local favorites like Iron Range Amber, James Page and Nordeast. Add one of our specialty sandwiches – try the Caesar Prime Rib Sandwich, Shagawa Combo, or Fish In The Weeds and nine flavors of wings to create the perfect lakeside experience. For our sports fans, munch on free popcorn and watch your favorite team play on our four flat-screen TV’s, while for all families, children under the age of ten eat for free from our kids menu. Antlers Lounge is a place to enjoy great company, beautiful views and a good time—join us soon at our bar in Ely, Minnesota. Antlers Lounge Hours: 11:00am – 1:00am* Daily *Closing time may vary without notice based on business demand.

We have everything you need to begin your adventure in the Northwoods. Disconnect and escape to nature. Jordan’s provides the gear and knowledge you need to navigate your trip to Northern Minnesota’s Boundary Waters and the Quetico Provincial Park.