Dog-Friendly Ely, Minnesota: Northwoods Adventures With Your Dog
From lakeside lodging and patio stops to scenic trails near the Boundary Waters, Ely is one of Minnesota’s best small-town getaways for dogs and their humans.
Ely, MN
Why Ely Works for Dog Travelers
Ely’s tourism bureau highlights that many local lodging properties welcome pets, making it easier to basecamp with your dog.
The Trezona Trail loops around Miner’s Lake within city limits and is a go-to local walk for visitors with dogs.
Ely tourism specifically notes outdoor seating where dogs may join at places like Northern Grounds and Rockwood.
Best Dog-Friendly Experiences
A scenic in-town loop with lake views, mining history, and easy access for a casual walk or longer outing.
Ely is the jumping-off point for wilderness adventures, so it’s ideal for travelers pairing town comforts with outdoor time.
You can pair dog walks and patio meals with visits to Ely’s signature attractions, though indoor animal centers generally do not allow pets except service animals.
Dog-Friendly Hotels in Ely, MN
Grand Ely Lodge Resort & Event Center
A full-service lakeside resort on Shagawa Lake with direct access to the Trezona Trail and plenty of room to stretch your legs after check-in.
400 North Pioneer Road, Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteAdventure Inn
An eco-friendly stay near downtown Ely with several dog-friendly room types, making it a practical pick for travelers who want to walk to shops and dining.
1145 East Sheridan Street, Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteStay Inn Ely
A simple budget-friendly option for road-trippers who want a straightforward overnight base in town.
Silver Rapids Lodge
A rustic northwoods stay outside central Ely that works well for travelers prioritizing outdoor access and a quieter setting.
Echo Trail Cabin
A dog-friendly cabin-style stay for travelers who want more space and a more private setup than a standard hotel room.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Ely, MN
Frisky Otter Pub & Eatery
One of Ely’s best-known dog-friendly patio stops. BringFido notes a pet-friendly patio and even a dog menu for four-legged guests.
302 E. Sheridan St., Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteGator's Grilled Cheese Emporium
A relaxed lunch stop known for creative grilled cheese sandwiches and a porch where leashed dogs can join you outside.
Front Porch Coffee & Tea Co
A cozy breakfast or coffee stop with a wraparound porch that works well for a slow morning with your dog.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
An easy casual stop for ice cream and quick bites, especially handy after a walk or drive through town.
1441 E. Sheridan St., Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteNorthern Grounds
Ely tourism specifically mentions Northern Grounds as a place where you can enjoy a drink with your pet in the outdoor seating area.
2 W. Sheridan St, Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteRockwood
Ely tourism highlights Rockwood as a place to grab a meal while enjoying your pet’s company in the outdoor seating area.
Dog-Friendly Activities & Parks in Ely, MN
Trezona Trail
Ely’s signature in-town dog walk: a loop around Miner’s Lake with views, mining history, and easy access from town and Grand Ely Lodge.
Ely Dog Park
A dedicated local dog park option for off-leash play before or after exploring Ely’s trails and downtown.
Kawishiwi Falls Trail
A popular short hike near Ely with a dramatic waterfall payoff, ideal for active dogs that enjoy forest walks.
Whiteside Park
A central green space in the heart of Ely with picnic areas and room for an easy on-leash stroll.
Semers Beach Park
A local favorite for lakeside relaxing with picnic tables and open space nearby; good for a scenic leashed walk, though not an off-leash beach.
White Wolf Dog Sled Trips
For winter visitors, Ely is famous for dogsledding, and White Wolf is one of the area’s established outfitters for guided adventures.
2141 Hwy 1, Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteWintergreen Dogsled Lodge
A classic Ely winter experience with guided dogsled outings from one of the region’s best-known dogsledding centers.
1101 Ring Rock Road, Ely, MN 55731
Visit WebsiteA Dog-Friendly Weekend in Ely
This 2-day plan mixes easy trail time, patio meals, and classic Ely attractions while keeping your dog comfortable and active.
Day 1: Downtown Ely + Easy Trail Time
Check into a dog-friendly stay like Adventure Inn or Grand Ely Lodge, then start with coffee and breakfast on a dog-friendly patio at Front Porch Coffee & Tea Co or Northern Grounds.
Walk the Trezona Trail around Miner’s Lake for an easy introduction to Ely. Afterward, browse downtown with your dog where permitted outdoors and stop by Whiteside Park for a break.
Have dinner on the patio at Frisky Otter or grab a casual outdoor table at Gator’s Grilled Cheese Emporium. End the night with a lakeside stroll near your hotel.
Day 2: Northwoods Adventure Day
Head out early for Kawishiwi Falls Trail or another dog-appropriate hike near town. Bring water, bug protection in warm months, and keep your dog leashed.
Relax back in Ely with lunch or ice cream at Dairy Queen’s outdoor tables. If traveling without your dog for a short stretch, visit the International Wolf Center or North American Bear Center, both signature Ely attractions.
Wrap up with a scenic dinner at Grand Ely Lodge’s property area or another patio-friendly stop, then take one more sunset walk before heading out the next morning.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Duluth
About 115 milesA larger Lake Superior city with parks, trails, and more dog-friendly patios for an extended Minnesota road trip.
Grand Marais
About 125 milesA North Shore favorite with scenic walks, pet-friendly lodging, and easy access to lake views and hiking.
International Falls
About 102 milesA quieter northern Minnesota stop that works well as part of a border-country road trip with your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ely, Minnesota good for dogs?
Yes. Ely is especially good for travelers who want trails, outdoor recreation, and pet-friendly lodging. The city’s tourism bureau actively promotes pet-friendly stays, walks, and some patio dining.
Are dogs allowed on restaurant patios in Ely?
Sometimes. Minnesota law allows cities to authorize dogs in designated outdoor dining areas, but each business sets its own rules. In Ely, several restaurants and coffee spots offer dog-friendly outdoor seating, but it’s smart to call ahead.
Is there an off-leash dog park in Ely?
Yes. Ely has a dedicated dog park, and it’s the best option for off-leash play. Most trails and public outdoor areas around town require dogs to remain leashed.
Can dogs go to the International Wolf Center or North American Bear Center?
Generally no, except for service animals. The North American Bear Center specifically states that only service animals are permitted inside. Plan to visit these attractions only if someone can stay with your dog or if your lodging setup allows a short break.
What is the typical pet fee for hotels in Ely?
Expect many Ely-area pet fees to fall around $15 to $25 per night, though some cabins and vacation rentals may use different per-stay pricing.
Ready to plan more dog-friendly getaways?
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