Nestled amid the rugged scenery of northeastern Nevada, Ely is widely celebrated in 2025 as the state’s most underrated—and undeniably charming—small town. Far from the dazzling lights of Reno and Las Vegas, Ely captivates visitors with its blend of Wild West spirit, rich cultural legacy, vibrant public art, and unrivaled access to the natural wonders of Great Basin country.
Ely’s Unique Appeal
Once a bustling copper mining hub, Ely has preserved its history while evolving into a modern destination for explorers, history buffs, and artists. Downtown Ely is a living canvas, with large-scale murals vividly depicting mining, railroad, and local legends, transforming city walls into a vibrant open-air gallery. These artistic treasures are best explored on foot or with one of the town’s self-guided tours.
Immersive History
Nevada Northern Railway Museum: Ely’s proudest draw, this National Historic Landmark offers heritage train rides aboard century-old steam and diesel locomotives. Excursions wind through high desert landscapes and even feature stargazing trips, where the night sky dazzles with brilliant clarity.
Renaissance Village: Step into restored historic homes that showcase the town’s multicultural roots—honoring immigrant families who shaped Ely’s development.
White Pine Public Museum: Delve into pioneer-era artifacts, a carefully reconstructed 19th-century schoolhouse, and engaging exhibits on the region’s earliest settlers.
Outdoor Adventure at Your Fingertips
Just over an hour from Ely lies Great Basin National Park, a lesser-known gem with fascinating sites like Lehman Caves and groves of ancient bristlecone pines—some of the world’s oldest living organisms. The dramatic solitude of the park offers hiking, camping, stargazing, and nature-watching without the crowds.
Ely also serves as a basecamp for:
Mountain biking on Ward Mountain’s wild trails, coveted by cycling enthusiasts.
Fishing, boating, and hiking in area parks (such as Cave Lake State Park and Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park).
Exploring scenic drives along “America’s Loneliest Road”—US Route 50—for endless vistas, starry nights, and serene desert beauty.
Community Spirit & Small-Town Charm
Ely’s friendly, down-to-earth vibe envelops you the moment you stroll through its walkable streets. Locally-owned diners, like the vintage Silver State Restaurant and old-fashioned Economy Drug & Soda Fountain, serve up both comfort food and nostalgia. The historic Hotel Nevada & Gambling Hall recreates classic Western hospitality with themed suites honoring Hollywood legends.
Annual events—including the Fire & Ice Winter Festival, where residents build ice sculptures and celebrate with parades and fireworks, and themed train rides for families—bring the community together in joyful celebration.
Why Ely Is Nevada’s Must-Visit Underrated Town
Ely isn’t flashy or crowded. Instead, its enchantment lies in an unhurried pace, authentic connections, and genuine hospitality. Here, you can:
Ride a steam train beneath sparkling desert stars.
Marvel at art around every corner.
Relive frontier-era adventures and connect with vibrant small-town life.
Launch excursions into some of America’s most dramatic, uncrowded wildlands.
Perfect for those travelers searching for undiscovered treasures, Ely is the Nevada town where the past lingers, nature beckons, and every visit feels refreshingly personal and real. In 2025, this hidden gem earns its spot as the Silver State’s most underrated—and deeply rewarding—small-town destination.
Sources
[1] https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/2025-s-most-underrated-towns-in-nevada.html
[2] https://travelnevada.com/cities/ely/
[3] https://www.yelp.com/biz/city-of-ely-ely
[4] https://www.thetravel.com/grand-basin-national-park-underrated-but-worth-visiting-in-2025/
[5] https://twitter.com/rgj/status/1912959283194441984
