If you're up in the North Woods of Minnesota and find yourself in Ely, you're probably looking for a slice of entertainment amidst the lakes and pines. While Ely itself is a gateway to the Boundary Waters and doesn't host any casinos within city limits, there are several excellent options within a reasonable drive. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor on a fishing trip, knowing where to find the closest slots, table games, and dining is key. We'll break down your best bets, driving times, and what each casino near Ely, MN, offers so you can plan your visit.
Fortune Bay Resort Casino: Your Closest Major Option
Located in Tower, MN, Fortune Bay Resort Casino is the nearest full-scale casino to Ely, sitting about 40 miles southwest via MN-169 and US-53. The drive takes roughly 50 minutes. This isn't just a casino; it's a full resort destination on the shores of Lake Vermilion. You'll find over 900 slot machines, a solid selection of table games including blackjack and craps, and a poker room. Off the gaming floor, they have a hotel, a golf course, multiple dining options from casual to fine dining, and often host live entertainment. It's the most comprehensive spot for a casino night without having to drive halfway to Duluth.
What to Expect on the Gaming Floor
Fortune Bay's gaming area is spacious and modern. Slot players will find a mix of classic reel games and the latest video slots with progressive jackpots. Table game minimums are generally reasonable, often starting at $10 for blackjack. They also feature seasonal poker tournaments. If you're coming from Ely, it's wise to check their website for any special events or promotions running, as they frequently offer slot tournaments and dining specials.
Grand Casino Hinckley: A Larger-Scale Alternative
If you're willing to take a longer drive for a bigger selection, Grand Casino Hinckley is about 115 miles south of Ely. The trip takes around 2 hours via MN-1 and I-35. This is one of Minnesota's premier gaming destinations, operated by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. The scale is significantly larger, featuring over 1,800 slots, more than 40 table games, and a dedicated non-smoking gaming pavilion. They have two hotels, a renowned buffet, several other restaurants, and a large event center that draws major concert acts.
Comparing the Drive: Is It Worth It?
For a day trip from Ely, Fortune Bay is the clear, convenient choice. However, if you're planning an overnight getaway or want a vastly larger game selection, Grand Casino Hinckley justifies the extra drive. Many players from northern Minnesota make a weekend of it, booking a hotel room and enjoying the full resort amenities. The poker room at Hinckley is also notably more active if that's your game.
Other Gaming Options in the Region
While Fortune Bay and Grand Casino Hinckley are the primary destinations, there are smaller venues further afield. The Black Bear Casino Resort in Carlton, MN (near Duluth), is about 110 miles east, also a 2-hour drive. It offers another full-resort experience. For a much smaller, local vibe, some area bars and truck stops have linked video gaming terminals, but these offer a limited experience compared to a true casino floor with live tables and a wide variety of slots.
Online Casino Play: An Instant Alternative from Ely
Can't make the drive? If you're physically located within Minnesota, you can access social and sweepstakes casinos online, which offer a legal way to play casino-style games for fun and potential rewards. For real-money online casino play, you would need to travel to a state like Michigan, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania where it's fully licensed. However, when you're back home in a legal state, top brands like BetMGM Casino (offering a $1,000 first deposit match) and Caesars Palace Online Casino (with a 100% up to $2,500 welcome bonus) provide a massive game library instantly on your phone. They accept deposits via Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal.
Planning Your Visit: Tips for Ely-Based Players
Always check road conditions, especially in winter; MN-1 and the roads to Tower can be tricky. Call ahead to confirm casino hours, as they can change seasonally. Most casinos near Ely require you to be 18 or older to enter and gamble. Consider carpooling with friends—it makes the drive more enjoyable and is safer. Set a budget for your day before you go, and take advantage of the player's club card; even at Fortune Bay, signing up gets you points for play that can translate into food credits or other perks.
FAQ
Is there a casino actually in Ely, Minnesota?
No, there are no casinos located within the city limits of Ely, MN. The closest full-service casino is Fortune Bay Resort Casino in Tower, approximately a 50-minute drive away.
What is the best casino to go to from Ely for a day trip?
Fortune Bay Resort Casino is the best choice for a day trip. It's the closest (under an hour's drive) and offers a complete experience with slots, tables, dining, and lakeside views, making it convenient to go and return in a single day.
Can I play online casinos legally while I'm in Ely, MN?
You cannot play regulated real-money online casinos (like BetMGM or DraftKings Casino) from Minnesota, as the state has not yet legalized it. However, you can legally access social/sweepstakes casino sites for entertainment. For real-money play, you must be physically located in a state where it's legal.
Do I need to be a member of a tribe to gamble at Fortune Bay or Grand Casino?
No, these casinos are open to the public. You do not need to be a member of the Bois Forte Band (Fortune Bay) or the Mille Lacs Band (Grand Casino) to enter, play, or enjoy the amenities.
What's the age requirement to gamble at casinos near Ely?
You must be at least 18 years old to enter and gamble at Minnesota tribal casinos, including Fortune Bay and Grand Casino Hinckley. You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID for proof of age.