Grand Ely Lodge Resort & Event Center

About

Grand Ely Lodge Resort & Event Center, situated at 400 N Pioneer Rd, Ely, MN, is a well-regarded resort offering a blend of comfortable accommodations, dining, and event facilities. Overlooking Shagawa Lake, it provides a quintessential Northwoods experience, appealing to families, couples, and groups with amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Its proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness makes it a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts.

The indoor swimming pool at Grand Ely Lodge is generally maintained at a comfortable, warm temperature, often reported to be around 86-88°F (30-31°C).

What are people saying (AI review summary)? text: "People say this resort hotel offers comfortable rooms, a lake view, and access to kayaks, a sauna, and a hot tub. They highlight the beautiful location, the delicious food at the restaurant, and the convenient access to town and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. They also like the friendly and helpful staff." language_code: "en-US"

Location

Gallery

Amenities

• Good for Children
• Accessible Entrance

Reviews

Listing Reviews

August 30th, 2025

Bethany Vaughn

We have stayed many years and really like the resort. The reason for 3 stars instead of more is because I felt dismissed when I spoke with a manager about their “pet room” policy. Their policy is only for dogs, not cats. I'm not upset that they have that policy, I don't expect them to change that policy, but I do think it's misleading that they don't say DOG friendly rooms when booking reservations over the phone. Fortunately, we called to confirm that a kitten would be okay, because we very nearly just showed up with our cat. Nobody upon booking mentioned that A) this was only a DOG policy or B) that we would need to call back and let them know what animal we would be bringing. When addressing this with management, they didn’t seem concerned that others might need this information over the phone when booking. I'm putting this out there so that people are informed. If this doesn't affect or bother you, it's a nice place to stay. We love the fact that there are kayaks and water bikes, a pool, and sometimes a ping pong table (if the room isn't being used for a bridal party). The restaurant has tasty food and the bar also provides quick bites. The view from the porch, off of the restaurant and bar, provides a very nice view. It's very nice that they offer a veteran's discount.

August 29th, 2025

Peggy Schlough

Absolutely fantastic. Water activities, bonfire with s’mores. Kids 10 and under ate free off the kids menu. Beds so comfortable. Room and pool and all areas super clean. Staff beyond friendly. Food at the restaurant was outstanding. Our room faced the lake. Listened to the loons. We missed the northern lights, but we found out they had been out during our stay. I can’t say enough about our experience there. We had a two room family suite, was worth the extra $$. Can’t wait to go back next year.

August 10th, 2025

Bryan

We were here as wedding guests and the venue did not take care of the bride and groom. They did not remember what time the wedding was at. They missed feeding the bridal party and they did not have the bar prepped. Once everyone was starting at the bar, they didnt tap the kegs until the amount the bride and groom were paying was already met even with people asking for beers on tap. Overall the venue with amazing places to see. BUT they did not care about our friends (bride and groom).They Also only scheduled the bartender till 9. He was an amazing guy and stayed for the bride and groom! Thank you :) AND they would not turn on the AC during the reception even though it got over 80 degrees during the reception.

June 21st, 2025

Kathy Kangas

This is our second time staying and this time we got married! Brian was amazing helping us plan, coordinate and choose the best options for us. We had a small wedding of about 16 guests, all family 💖 it turned out so perfect!! Thanks to all the staff for making it so easy, delightful and welcoming! Definitely will be back!! The whole experience from the cabin style rooms, beds were so comfortable, food was delicious and even the Loons were All AMAZING!! Thank you so much!!!

August 12th, 2025

Wendy Rolfson

It was an Excellent venue for a family wedding this summer. Many guests at the wedding enjoyed swimming in the lake. We were traveling with a pet and I was most impressed with the accommodations for our fur baby. Ground floor rooms with patio door. A special comforter we could use so our gal could be on the bed with us. Separate waste control for those evening walks with our dog.