Location: Ely
Top Things to do in Ely
8 Things to Do in Ely That You Shouldn't Miss
Ely (/ˈiːli/, EE-lee) is the largest city and county seat of White Pine County, Nevada, United States. Ely was founded as a stagecoach station along the Pony Express and Central Overland Route. In 1906, copper was discovered and Ely's mining boom came later than the other towns along US 50. The railroads connecting the First Transcontinental Railroad to the mines in Austin, Nevada and Eureka, Nevada have long been removed, but the railroad to Ely is preserved as a heritage railway by the Nevada Northern Railway and known as the Ghost Train of Old Ely. As of the 2010 census, the population was 4,255.
Restaurants in Ely
1. Nevada Northern Railway Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 313 reviews
The Nevada Northern Railway is a non-profit historical foundation whose mission is to maintain and operate what has been acclaimed as the best preserved railroad facility in the United States. Come, enjoy history with us! We offer 90 minute train rides up toward the historic Ruth Copper Mine, as well as a view into the history of what put this mining town on the map. Don't miss the included tour of the Engine House and yard after the train ride. You can see the facility that has been servicing these steam locomotives for over a century now. For the serious rail fan, we offer the opportunity to be at the throttle (and brakes!) Of a real, standard-gauge, steam locomotive on your own private run "up the hill."
Reviewed By CrankingChick - Tucson, Arizona
We planned our vacation to be sure we would be in Ely when NNRY was running a steam engine (schedule on website) and purchased our tickets in advance. We arrived early so we'd have plenty of time to explore all the historic buildings at the depot and visit the shop. We were impressed by all the rolling stock they have on exhibit and how exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable the staff is. We were so pleased to see how they are keeping this historic railroad alive for future generations. They can accommodate passengers who use wheelchairs or have mobility challenges with a portable lift. We have ridden on several other heritage railroads throughout the U.S. and the equipment at NNRY was comparable. The actual train ride was shorter than others we have taken (about 90 minutes) and most of the desert scenery is not very interesting because the tracks follow alongside US50 (though we did enjoy passing through the tunnels and hearing about the history of the area). We thought we'd get a better view of the mine at Ruth. We did enjoy the experience- just go for the history and opportunity to ride these vintage treasures and not for the scenery.
2. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
Overall Ratings
4 based on 130 reviews
Museum on former site of Ward, a small mining town.
Reviewed By NormanP862 - Summerfield
It was interesting to learn about the use of charcoal in mining. The site is well maintained and has informative plaques.
3. Ely Renaissance Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By Cathy B - Salt Lake City, Utah
Renaissance Villiage is a short walk from our hotel on Aultman. We visited during the farmers market which looked like it had significant community support. What we were particularly interested in were the renovated shotgun houses of several nationalities. The renovations were incredible. The only thing that I would have added was before and after shots of each house. The Renaissance Society has invested signifcant horus and funds in the area as well as the many artworks in the town.
4. Garnet Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By Sharron G - Minden, NV
Took the dirt road as described and stopped 1/2 way up. Plenty of rocks..but no garnets. Got to the top where there is a forest service bathroom and promptly found 6 within 15 feet of our car. We took hammers and had great fun making small rocks out of big ones. Yes, it is quite dusty - but really great enjoyable for an hour. Note: Google maps was helpful, but not perfect. Important...bring sunglasses or eye protection.
5. Jailhouse Casino
Overall Ratings
4 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By Traci M - Fort Worth, Texas
We walked over the from Hotel Nevada where we were staying ... just across the road. Sunday night and pretty late so we had the place almost to ourselves. Very clean. New and old machines - paid okay. Found some unique machine - didn't get yelled at for videoing my bonus.
Very good rating because of how clean the place was and how nice the guy working there was. Combo slot tech / bartender.
6. Central Theatre
Overall Ratings
5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By Patricia2014x - Honolulu, Hawaii
This is a wonderful original Art Deco Theater. Movies have been showing here for over 50 years! Top rated movies in a clean environment with great popcorn ( of course) and many other goodies. Not only do the locals enjoy the theater, but our visitors seem to enjoy the small town atmosphere and friendly people.
7. White Pine Public Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
Reviewed By civilwarguy - Walden, Tenn
This is a standard, underfunded but well loved country history museum. It has the usual collection of odd artifacts arranged with little thematic or contextual information beyond a label. But the history of the area is fascinating and the director is helpful. If you like small history museums, set aside 45 minutes for this one.
8. Wicked Rein Herb & Gift Boutique
One of a kind boutique! We craft our our blends of fresh organic herbal teas. We also carry all natural health, beauty, holistic products. Beautiful pottery, home decor signs, and a wide array of home and culinary gifts. We also have a Yoga studio and a book for a book corner with comfortable seating.
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