North American Bear Center, Ely Travel Guide
Discover the North American Bear Center in Ely, Minnesota, where education meets conservation in an immersive wildlife experience focused on black bears.
The North American Bear Center in Ely, Minnesota, offers an immersive experience into the world of bears. Visitors can learn about bear behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts while observing these magnificent creatures in a natural setting. Perfect for families and nature lovers alike, this wildlife park is a must-visit for anyone traveling in the region.
A brief summary to North American Bear Center
- 1926 MN-169, Ely, Minnesota, 55731, US
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- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring North American Bear Center.
- Plan your visit during feeding times for the best chance to see bears active and engaging.
- Check the center's schedule for special educational talks and events to enhance your visit.
- Bring binoculars for a closer view of the bears in their natural habitat.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
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Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Ely, head east on E Sheridan St toward 2nd Ave E. Continue straight onto E 1st St. After approximately 0.3 miles, turn left onto MN-169 (also known as Ely's main road). Follow MN-169 for about 1.5 miles. The North American Bear Center will be on your right at 1926 MN-169. Look for the large brown sign indicating the center.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from a local shop in Ely. Start at the intersection of E Sheridan St and 2nd Ave E, and head east on E Sheridan St. After a short distance, continue straight onto E 1st St. When you reach MN-169, turn left and bike for approximately 1.5 miles. The North American Bear Center will be on your right at 1926 MN-169. The bike ride should take about 10-15 minutes depending on your pace.
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Public Transport
Check the local shuttle services or bus routes that may operate in Ely. If available, take a shuttle that heads toward the outskirts of Ely and specifically check if it has a stop at MN-169. If unsure, ask the driver to drop you off at the North American Bear Center, located at 1926 MN-169. Confirm the schedule ahead of time, as public transport options may be limited.
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