The city of Ely is located in Saint Louis County, Minnesota, right on top of the Vermilion Iron Ranges, as well as a popular entry point to the Boundary Waters. Ely is known for its rustic and wild aesthetic, where the most popular activities are fishing and canoeing in its many lakes, hunting, relaxing in log cabins, and enjoying various winter activities. Ely has some of the best resorts in the state, as well as many restaurants and hotels to keep the tourists busy.  In the vast wilderness of this city lies the International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center, where they house wild wolves and bears to educate visitors about the wildlife and how they interact with humans. 

     On top of the many museums and cultural centers, Ely is also known for its education and history.  One of the most popular schools in the area is Vermilion Community College, where students learn about natural sciences and resources, and outdoor education.  Visitors can also learn about the environment and the vast history of this city by visiting the Ely Art and Heritage Center, Dorothy Molter Museum, and the  Ely Area Veterans Memorial located near Miners Lake.