Getting There
Ely is reachable by car on three intersecting U.S. routes. Highway 50 heads west and is marketed as the “Loneliest Road in America,” offering long, empty stretches that demand a reliable vehicle and a full fuel tank. Highway 93 runs north toward Idaho and south toward Las Vegas, while Highway 6 links to Tonopah and the Sierra Nevada. The nearest commercial airports are in Salt Lake City, UT and Las Vegas, NV; from either airport you’ll need a rental car or shuttle to the town. Ely Airport (39.299722, ‑114.841944) serves only general aviation, so no commercial flights land there.
Choosing Your Stops
When deciding which attractions to prioritize, match each stop to your travel style. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum offers a historic train ride lasting 1 hour 45 minutes—ideal for rail enthusiasts or families seeking a structured activity. The Ely Renaissance Society’s Art Walk and Renaissance Village provide open‑air murals, workshops, and seasonal markets, appealing to creative travelers. Garnet Hill, a BLM‑managed rock‑hounding site about six miles west, suits those who enjoy hands‑on outdoor exploration. Use these criteria—cultural depth, interactive potential, and outdoor effort—to rank stops before you hit the road.
Flexible Visit Sequence
A suggested flow respects typical opening hours and driving logistics. Begin the day with Garnet Hill; the early morning light makes the walk pleasant and the BLM access road is easiest before midday traffic. Return to town for a midday lunch, then head to the Nevada Northern Railway Museum for the train ride, which runs on a set schedule. In the afternoon, wander the Renaissance Society’s Art Walk and, if time permits, explore the Renaissance Village workshops or the Farmer’s Market. This sequence lets you experience outdoor, rail, and art attractions without back‑tracking.
Booking & Access Checks
Before you depart, verify three key items. First, check road conditions and any seasonal closures on US 50, 6, and 93; winter snow or summer heat can affect service stations. Second, confirm the train schedule and ticket availability at the Nevada Northern Railway Museum by calling or visiting https://www.nnry.com/. Third, look up BLM access information for Garnet Hill and any required permits, and confirm that the Renaissance Society’s workshops or market are open on your travel dates. Mapping fuel stops along US 50 is essential because services can be spaced 20‑30 miles apart.
Traveler Trade‑offs
Driving gives you freedom to explore remote stretches, but it requires a well‑maintained vehicle, extra fuel, and an emergency kit (water, food, spare tire). Flying into Salt Lake City or Las Vegas shortens travel time but adds rental‑car logistics and extra mileage to reach Ely. The shortcut to Las Vegas via Nevada State Highway 318 saves roughly 60 miles but offers almost no cell coverage or services, increasing risk for less‑reliable cars. Weigh the scenic value of the Loneliest Road against the convenience of a more direct, but less scenic, route.
Must‑See Cultural Attractions
The Nevada Northern Railway Museum anchors Ely’s rail heritage. Two historic train routes each run for 1 hour 45 minutes, letting passengers experience vintage locomotives and the surrounding landscape. The museum’s website provides schedule details and contact numbers for ticketing. The Ely Renaissance Society adds a burst of color with over twenty murals and sculptures scattered through downtown, plus a Renaissance Village of shotgun houses that showcase the town’s multicultural past. Workshops, retreats, and seasonal events—such as the 4th of July celebration—are hosted here, and the nearby Farmer’s Market adds a local flavor.
Outdoor & Hands‑On Activities
Garnet Hill, located about six miles west on Highway 50, is a popular BLM‑managed rock‑hounding spot where visitors can collect garnets and enjoy a short hike. The access road lies on the right side of the highway and is marked by a BLM sign. Beyond the hill, the surrounding mountain ranges provide 4‑wheel‑drive routes, canyon drives, and peaks exceeding 11,000 feet for climbers. Before heading into the backcountry, verify current BLM road conditions and weather forecasts, especially in winter when snow can close high‑elevation passes.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Ely’s small casinos offer slot machines, while the historic Hotel Nevada features live blackjack and poker tables for those who enjoy table games. On the east side of town, legalized brothels provide free guided tours that reveal a unique slice of Nevada history. Photographers will appreciate downtown’s historic architecture, a tidy park, and the iconic neon prospector sign on the Hotel Nevada’s Nevada Club. Check each venue’s operating hours and any age‑verification requirements before planning an evening out.
Practical Tips – Food, Lodging, and Supplies
The source does not list specific eateries or hotels, so research recent reviews for accommodation and dining options before you travel, especially during peak seasons. The town’s Farmer’s Market and seasonal Holiday Village at the Renaissance Village can supply fresh produce and local crafts. Because US 50 can have 20‑30 mile gaps without services, carry extra water, snacks, and a spare fuel container. Confirm parking availability near the museum and downtown murals, and note any fees or time limits.
Next Destinations & Road‑Trip Planning
From Ely, US 93 north leads into Idaho, while US 50 and US 6 head toward California, Utah, and Colorado. The Loneliest Road west offers dramatic desert valleys and straight‑line stretches, but you must plan fuel stops carefully. If Las Vegas is your next stop, the shortcut via Nevada State Highway 318 cuts about 60 miles but lacks cell coverage and services, so only attempt it with a reliable vehicle and a full emergency kit. Mapping rest areas and preparing a backup plan will keep your extended road‑trip smooth.
