Looking for cheap Flights to Ely, Nevada, USA (ELY) airport?

Ely, accessible via cheap flights to ELY airport (Ely Airport/Yelland Field), is a historic mining and outdoor recreation hub in eastern Nevada, nestled in the Great Basin along the Snake Range. Attracting over 30,000 visitors annually, it offers cultural sites like the Nevada Northern Railway Museum and outdoor adventures in the nearby Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Explore Ely hidden gems like the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park at 1255 Cave Valley Rd, Ely, NV 89301, and savor Ely local culture at eateries such as The Nevada Club at 52 N Main St, Ely, NV 89301.

History of Ely, Nevada

Ely’s history is rooted in the Shoshone and Goshute tribes, who inhabited the Great Basin for centuries. Founded in 1878 as a mining town, it became White Pine County’s seat in 1887. Named after early settler John Ely, the town grew with copper discoveries in the 1900s. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum (1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301) preserves rail and mining history. The 1906 Kennecott Copper discovery fueled a mining boom, shaping Ely’s identity. The East Ely Depot, now part of the museum, reflects its rail heritage. Annual events like the White Pine County Fair and the Fire and Ice Festival highlight Ely historical exploration. Today, Ely blends its Native, mining, and rail heritage with modern tourism and outdoor recreation.

Early History and Native Heritage

The Shoshone and Goshute tribes thrived in the Great Basin, using the area for hunting and trade. The 1863 Treaty of Ruby Valley ceded lands, leading to settler influx. Ely emerged in 1878 as a mining camp, supporting copper and gold prospectors. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum preserves Native artifacts and early settler tools, emphasizing Ely Native history. Tribal influence persists in cultural events and place names like Cave Lake.

• Nevada Northern Railway Museum: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine Public Museum: 2000 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Railroad Era and Founding

The 1906 Nevada Northern Railway arrival made Ely a mining hub, with a population of 2,000 by 1910. The East Ely Depot, now a museum, reflects early prosperity. The railroad transported copper and supported ranching, shaping Ely railroad history. The White Pine County Courthouse (801 Clark St, Ely, NV 89301), built in 1908, symbolizes early governance.

• Nevada Northern Railway Museum: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine County Courthouse: 801 Clark St, Ely, NV 89301.

20th Century Development

The 1900s copper boom, driven by Kennecott, made Ely a mining leader. The Great Depression slowed mining, but New Deal projects like the Ward Charcoal Ovens supported recovery. The 1980s saw tourism rise with the Nevada Northern Railway’s preservation as a historic line. The 1990 opening of Great Basin National Park nearby boosted outdoor tourism. These developments highlight Ely 20th century history, preserved at the Nevada Northern Railway Museum.

• Nevada Northern Railway Museum: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park: 1255 Cave Valley Rd, Ely, NV 89301.

Modern Ely and Preservation

Since the 1990s, Ely has grown as a tourism and recreation hub. The Fire and Ice Festival and White Pine County Fair draw thousands. Preservation efforts protect the Downtown Historic District, including the 1907 Hotel Nevada (501 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301). The 2035 Comprehensive Plan promotes sustainable tourism, balancing mining with eco-friendly initiatives, reflecting Ely modern history. The railway museum and state parks drive cultural tourism.

• Downtown Historic District: Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Hotel Nevada: 501 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Hidden Historical Gems and Local Perspectives

Locals cherish sites like the Ely Renaissance Village (400 Ely St, Ely, NV 89301), a restored 1900s settlement, and the Garnet Hill, a historic mining site. The White Pine Public Museum shares mining and pioneer stories, highlighting Ely hidden history. These spots evoke Ely’s mining spirit.

• Ely Renaissance Village: 400 Ely St, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine Public Museum: 2000 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Ely’s legacy includes the 1906 copper boom and the railway’s founding. Events like the Fire and Ice Festival connect past and present. The city’s mining and rail resilience draws visitors to explore Ely historical legacy.

• Nevada Northern Railway Museum: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park: 1255 Cave Valley Rd, Ely, NV 89301.

Geography and Climate of Ely, Nevada

Ely spans 7.6 square miles in the Great Basin, near the Snake Range. It’s 120 miles from St. George, UT, and 190 miles from Las Vegas, connected by US-93 and US-50. Cave Lake State Park (US-93, Ely, NV 89301) offers Ely outdoor activities. The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Steptoe Valley enhance scenic appeal.

• Cave Lake State Park: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.
• Success Loop: Success Summit Rd, Ely, NV 89301.
• Steptoe Valley Access: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.

Ely has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk), with warm summers (average high 87°F in July) and cold winters (average low 10°F in January). Record highs reach 98°F (July 2005), and lows hit -30°F (January 1982). Annual precipitation is 9 inches, with 40 inches of snow. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring Ely nature trails, with vibrant mountain views.

Key Demographics & Statistics in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s 2023 population is 4,100 (2020 census: 4,041; 2024 estimate: 4,120), with a median age of 40. It’s 80% White, 15% Hispanic, 4% Native American, 1% Other. 95% are citizens, 90% U.S.-born. Households: 1,800 (median income $65,000). 50% married, 30% never married. Poverty rate: 12%. Workforce: 50% mining-related, 10% entrepreneurs. Commute: 15 minutes. Education: 20% bachelor’s, 40% high school. Mining, tourism, and ranching shape Ely demographics.

Ely spans zip code 89301, covering neighborhoods like Downtown (89301) and East Ely (89301), aiding navigation for Ely neighborhood guides.

Local Neighborhoods & Districts in Ely, Nevada

Downtown Ely offers historic charm and shops, East Ely provides residential calm near the railway, and the Aultman Street area buzzes with commerce, key for Ely neighborhood guides. The Downtown Historic District features 19th-century architecture.

• The Nevada Club: 52 N Main St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Downtown Historic District: Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Ely City Park: 1500 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Economy and Employment in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s economy relies on mining, tourism, and ranching, anchored by Robinson Mining and the Nevada Northern Railway. Unemployment is 4.0%, near national average, with growth in hospitality, boosting Ely job opportunities. The city supports 1,000 mining-related jobs.

• Robinson Mining: 4232 US-93, Ely, NV 89301.
• William Bee Ririe Hospital: 1500 Avenue H, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine County Schools: 1135 Avenue C, Ely, NV 89301.

Innovation & Technology in Ely, Nevada

Ely supports mining tech via Great Basin College’s Ely campus (2115 Bobcat Dr, Ely, NV 89301), focusing on extraction automation. High-speed internet via Frontier covers 75%, enabling remote work. Challenges include connectivity, but state grants foster tech, supporting Ely remote work.

Ely’s tech grows in mining automation and renewable energy. The college mentors entrepreneurs. Broadband expansion aids telecommuting. Priorities include sustainable mining, shaping Ely technology trends.

Government & Public Services in Ely, Nevada

Ely operates under a council-manager system with five council members. Services include police, fire, water, and waste via City Hall. Police has 15 officers; fire operates one station. The city maintains 10 parks, 8 miles of trails, and a library. Development focuses on tourism via the 2035 Comprehensive Plan, supporting Ely public services.

Legal & Civic Services in Ely, Nevada

White Pine County Courthouse (801 Clark St, Ely, NV 89301) handles cases; legal aid via Nevada Legal Services (775-289-2332). Civic engagement via Ely Chamber (636 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301). Voter registration at City Hall (501 Mill St, Ely, NV 89301). Library hosts forums. Elections every two years via Nevada Secretary of State.

Ely encourages participation through boards like the Recreation Board. Elections offer multilingual materials. Volunteers join Friends of Ely City Park. Meetings at City Hall are open, fostering Ely community resources.

Infrastructure and Utilities in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s infrastructure supports mining and tourism. City manages water and electricity, with 10% renewables. High-speed internet via Frontier covers 75%. Weekly waste with recycling. Maintains 50 miles of roads, 10 parks, 8 miles of trails. Recent US-93 upgrades enhance connectivity, supporting Ely infrastructure.

Educational Centers & Learning Opportunities in Ely, Nevada

Higher Education and Trade Schools in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s education includes a college campus supporting mining and trades, ideal for Ely school districts.

• Great Basin College Ely Campus: 2115 Bobcat Dr, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine Vocational Programs: 1135 Avenue C, Ely, NV 89301.

K-12 and Adult Education in Ely, Nevada

White Pine County School District serves 1,400 students across 5 schools with 12:1 ratio. Adult ed via Great Basin College offers mining, healthcare certifications.

• White Pine High School: 1800 Bobcat Dr, Ely, NV 89301.
• David E. Norman Elementary: 1001 E 11th St, Ely, NV 89301.

Deeper Cultural and Community Content in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s murals celebrate mining and rail heritage. The White Pine Public Museum (2000 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301) features local works. Tours start downtown, showcasing Ely art tours.

• Downtown Murals: Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine Public Museum: 2000 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Ely’s roots include Shoshone culture and mining traditions. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum and Ward Charcoal Ovens highlight these, supporting Ely cultural heritage. The Fire and Ice Festival draws crowds.

• Nevada Northern Railway Museum: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine Public Museum: 2000 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Local Artists & Creatives in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s scene thrives with artists at the White Pine Public Museum, inspired by the Snake Range, highlighting Ely local artists.

The Fire and Ice Festival features artisans. The college mentors youth. Events like the Ely Art Walk showcase 30+ creators, celebrating Ely cultural events.

Notable People and Culture in Media in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s culture blends Native traditions and mining heritage. Notable figures include historian Helen J. Stewart. Featured in documentaries on Great Basin history, it reflects vibrant Ely local culture.

Hidden Gems and Local’s Perspective in Ely, Nevada

Beyond the railway museum, locals love Ely secret spots like Garnet Hill and Cave Lake trails.

• Garnet Hill: US-50, Ely, NV 89301.
• Cave Lake State Park: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.

Ely’s independents offer authentic Nevada experiences, from diners to outfitters.

• The Nevada Club: 52 N Main St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Sportsworld: 1501 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Fire and Ice Festival and White Pine County Fair highlight Ely cultural events. Venues like the Bristlecone Convention Center host performances.

• Bristlecone Convention Center: 150 6th St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Ely City Library: 1590 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Wine & Culinary Culture in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s scene includes local brews at All Aboard Cafe (1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301). Markets connect to ranches. The Fire and Ice Festival celebrates flavors, boosting Ely culinary experiences.

Emphasizes farm-to-table with beef and local produce. The Nevada Club sources local meats. Cooking classes at the college teach regional dishes. Festivals highlight chefs.

Festivals & Events in Ely, Nevada

Fire and Ice Festival in January and White Pine County Fair in August highlight Ely annual events, drawing crowds for art, agriculture, and community.

• Fire and Ice Festival: Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine County Fair: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• Ely Farmers Market: 736 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Museums to Explore in Ely, Nevada

Museums offer mining, rail, and Native exhibits, ideal for Ely museum tours.

• Nevada Northern Railway Museum: 1100 Avenue A, Ely, NV 89301.
• White Pine Public Museum: 2000 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventures Near Ely, Nevada

Cave Lake State Park offers hiking and fishing. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest provides backpacking, Great Basin National Park stargazing, ideal for Ely outdoor adventures. Ward Charcoal Ovens, 15 miles away, offer historic trails.

• Cave Lake State Park: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.
• Great Basin National Park: 100 Great Basin National Park, Baker, NV 89311.
• Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park: 1255 Cave Valley Rd, Ely, NV 89301.

Fishing & Hunting in Ely, Nevada

Cave Lake is renowned for trout; access at Cave Lake State Park. Snake Range allows elk hunting (permits from Nevada Department of Wildlife), key for Ely fishing spots. Annual tournaments draw anglers.

• Cave Lake State Park: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.
• Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest: Success Summit Rd, Ely, NV 89301.

Unique Places & Wildlife in Ely, Nevada

Snake Range and Steptoe Valley host elk, bighorn sheep, and birds; viewing at Cave Lake State Park. Great Basin National Park showcases ecology. Ward Charcoal Ovens offer trails, supporting Ely wildlife viewing.

• Cave Lake State Park: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.
• Great Basin National Park: 100 Great Basin National Park, Baker, NV 89311.

Sports and Recreation in Ely, Nevada

Ely City Park offers fitness and fields. White Pine Bobcats promote football. Cave Lake hosts fishing events. Youth sports via Ely Parks. Bristlecone Convention Center supports performances. Rodeos encourage fitness, boosting Ely sports activities.

Wellness & Lifestyle in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s scene includes yoga at Ely City Park and resources at William Bee Ririe Hospital (1500 Avenue H, Ely, NV 89301). Events like health fairs promote fitness.

Hospital offers classes. Trails encourage activity; free yoga at markets. Fairs boost Ely wellness programs.

Health Care & Wellness in Ely, Nevada

William Bee Ririe Hospital (1500 Avenue H, Ely, NV 89301) provides 25 beds for emergency, orthopedics, and general care. Telemedicine aids rural patients. Ely City Park offers fitness. Hospital provides mental health support. Fairs screen, supporting Ely healthcare services.

Homes for the Elderly & Senior Living in Ely, Nevada

Ely Senior Center (600 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301) hosts programs. White Pine Care Center (1500 Avenue G, Ely, NV 89301) offers assisted living. Home health via hospital supports seniors, ideal for Ely senior living.

Childcare & Parenting Resources in Ely, Nevada

Ely offers care at Ely Early Childhood Center (1000 11th St E, Ely, NV 89301). Parenting groups meet at library. Ely City Park has playgrounds. College offers kids’ programs.

Ely City Library (1590 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301) hosts storytimes. Parks provide sports. Festivals include kid zones. Community programs offer support, aiding Ely family resources.

Pet-Friendly Spots in Ely, Nevada

Ely welcomes pets at Ely City Park and Cave Lake trails. Ely Feed & Supply (1290 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301) provides supplies. Vet care at Great Basin Veterinary Clinic (1800 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301). Shelter (1500 Avenue F, Ely, NV 89301) hosts adoptions. Trails ideal for Ely pet-friendly spots.

Shelter facilitates adoptions. Pet-friendly eateries like The Nevada Club welcome dogs. Training at local clubs. Hotels like Hotel Nevada are pet-friendly.

Best Shops & Boutiques in Ely, Nevada

Farmers Market and downtown offer local goods, enhancing Ely boutique shopping.

• Ely Farmers Market: 736 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Sportsworld: 1501 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Ely Art Bank: 400 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Top Dining Options in Ely, Nevada

Camping & Lodging in Ely, Nevada

Cave Lake State Park offers camping with lake views. Lodging ranges from historic to modern.

• Cave Lake State Park Campground: US-93, Ely, NV 89301.
• Hotel Nevada: 501 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.
• Prospector Hotel & Casino: 1501 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301.

Real Estate & Cost of Living in Ely, Nevada

Ely’s real estate is affordable, median home $200,000, below U.S. $350,000. Appreciation 3%. Rentals $900/month one-bedroom. Index 85, below average, driven by low costs. Median income $65,000. Market favors buyers, key for Ely real estate.

Urban Development & Future Plans in Ely, Nevada

Ely pursues growth via the 2035 Comprehensive Plan, focusing on downtown revitalization and trails. Projects add tourism spaces. Aims for sustainability, valley restoration.

Downtown Plan expands Historic District. Airport upgrades connectivity. College drives tech innovation. Challenges include housing, but grants fund projects, shaping Ely urban development.

Travel Tips for Ely, Nevada

Ely Airport (ELY) serves private flights; nearest commercial is Elko (EKO). Downtown walkable; free parking at sites. US-93, US-50 connect Las Vegas, Elko. Spring-fall ideal for activities; summer for hiking. Pack layers, sturdy shoes. Check events for tickets. Stations, ATMs available. Respect Native sites. Book early for Fire and Ice Festival, key for Ely travel tips.

Transportation and Getting Around in Ely, Nevada

Ely Airport (ELY) serves private flights; EKO for commercial. Local shuttles $1 fares. Taxis available. US-93, US-50 access regions. Trails support biking. Free parking abundant. Bike rentals at Ely Bike & Hike (1590 Aultman St, Ely, NV 89301) enhance Ely transportation options.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 24, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.