With all the fires going on and the heatwave that came through, we decided to get out of the cabin and go explore the wolf center. The wolves get some sort of activity a couple times a day. At 4pm they called out overhead that there would be a demo. The wolves were presented with some treats and came out for viewing behind the glass of the auditorium. They have five wolves, only one is female and two of the wolves are brothers; all are neutered. We enjoyed the interactive museum- listening to wolf howls and touching pelts. They had some skulls of dogs to compare to the skull of a wolf. Wow. They explained wolf population decline and conservation efforts. There was even some Native American expressions of wolves. They have so many stuffed wolves in their exhibit- some are huge. There's a lot of history there- a lot to read. I would say this place serves adults and kids alike. The interactive part is good for the kids as well as seeing the live wolves. The adults can watch short clips and learn about wolves behavior and safety. The employees are very kind and answered my wolf questions. They have a gift shop with attire and many other wolf related items, as well as snacks and non alcoholic drinks. They have the local root beer in a can! They have ample parking (electric car charger available) and clean restrooms. Admission fees are reasonable. We spent about 1.5 hours there but you could easily spend more. I would recommend a visit here. read more

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This is absolutely worth a stop if you're near Ely. It is so fun to see the wolves and talk to guides about all your wolf questions. People working here are very knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. The center and facilities are beautiful and well maintained. My only wish is that there was an outdoor viewing platform or area. read more

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This was a very expensive stop. Granted I did not feel bad about giving back to the wolves but the experience was lacking. The majority of the hands on activities did not work (howl room in particular) which was a huge bummer. They didn't talk about the wolves themselves - mentioned them but didn't go into much detail. It would have been awesome if they did a presentation on the wolves they have at the facility and then went on to chat about different things during the presentation. The staff was nice, the building was clean, but it just lacked information. For the ticket price - I'd like to learn more! read more

Fantastic! Our company from Arizona we're amazed! Great presentation, beautiful facility. Thank you!

Seeing the wolves close up is pretty amazing, they are so beautiful! The pups were really cute too. But after you watch them for a while with the handlers (who were in the enclosure the entire time we were there) you feel like you're watching large domesticated dogs. There was also a demonstration when we were there and we had hoping we'd learn more about each wolf but it was only the wolves being fed bratwurst. I would have left 4 stars but the bathrooms were really gross. Still cool to see the wolves but for the price it didn't quite hit the mark. read more

Our destination was Bear Head Lake State Park and we decided to take a detour to check out the center. So glad we did. While there are several areas to peruse, my favorites were the presentation by the guides and the enrichment activity. At 3:15pm, the guide gave a very educational and engaging presentation about several aspects of wolves, I.e. their color, what they eat, how they hunt, how they work and live together, etc. the presentation was made in front of the viewing area so as the wolves walked by, she also talked specifically about that individual. She had props and answered many questions. Very nicely done. At 4pm, and enrichment activity was held for the wolves. Trainers enter the wolves' enclosure and hide various treats for them to explore. It allows guests to see the wolves doing natural behaviors. Their large paws were fascinating to me. Such a beautiful animal. So glad we stopped. read more

International Wolf Center - Zoos Near Me - Ely, Minnesota

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The International Wolf Center advances the survival of wolf populations by teaching about wolves, their relationship to wildlands and the human role in their future. Our intrepid BWCA paddling crew met here recently before heading out into the wilderness the next day. The Center is a very attractive facility, and includes various exhibits, a film room, gift shop, and a nice viewing area to see the captive wolves that live on the grounds outside. No they're not pets, even though there is a decent resemblance to sled dogs. The sightings while chatting with the enthusiastic Center employees was the highlight for me and more than worth the price of admission. The Exhibits were interesting, but I just didn't have the patience to sift through all of this comprehensive information. read more

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I learned so much about wolves and so many things I (and scientists) assumed but recent studies had changed that. Very educated staff and exhibits that really are founded on research. Was appreciative to learn from what the center has built and what their studies have shown. Definitely recommend getting their early when they open as it's when the wolves are most active. Also, take the time to jump in to a few of the educational sessions they host the throughout the day. We sat in on three (3) and each were extremely enjoyable. The documentaries in the theatre are also great on the history of the center. Lastly the "Discover Wolves" exhibit was also great. Easily spent 3 hours here and snagged some great gifts for the family on our way out. I enjoyed seeing how the staff were protective of their wolf ambassadors & ensured their safety & comfort at all times. We watched an enrichment session in which the wolves were given frozen peaches. Since wolves in the wild wouldn't encounter a frozen peach, it was a fun experience to witness their response to a foreign object (one wolf loved them). Lastly, the wolves had received a feeding the night before & it was exactly what they would hunt in the wild. In previous animal exhibits I have seen wild animals receive a chicken thigh or pork chop, which they would not naturally eat. It was great to see these wolves treated like the wild animals they are. Bravo! read more

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This place is truly amazing. My wife and I love coming to Ely, MN not only for the food and the hikes, but for places like this to visit. Today my family and took a wonderful trip up to visit the wolf center. These creatures are so majestic and beautiful. You have to see it to really appreciate it. As we made our ways to the front door the kind lady at the front desk asked if we have happened to pay ahead time which we did. For my wife, myself and our three kids, it was only $55. Our daughter Piper was free because she was only one when we were there. The first thing you see when you walk in is just how massive this structure really is. The gift shop is on both sides of the front entrance. Plenty is sweaters, hats, stuffed animals, books and more. As we made our way down the hall we spotted and little gallery of stuffed wolves and information on each wolf. Did you know red colored wolves are the rarest in the world? I didn't until today. On the right hand side was glass paneled that you could view to the outer side of the enclosed area for the wolves. Four of them were running around and one of them had a deer head in its mouth. The word "awesome" comes to mind when I see them. There was a young lady in what appeared to be a small seating area explaining the importance of having wolves in our ecosystem. There was plenty of knowledge to learn as you gazed outward to the wolves eating, sleeping, and playing. This place would be fun for you and the whole family. Definitely come check it out, you won't be disappointed. #schroyerfamilydaily #wolves #wolf #arrenschroyer #internationalwolfcenter #familyouting #family #wild #wildanimals #adventure #explore #animals read more

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Before visiting IWC, I did some internet research on wolves, and I thought I learned some useful information but I was wrong. The gentleman that works there ( I forgot to ask for his name 20ish, wears a " staff" shirt ), was so knowledgeable that he was able to answer thoroughly all the questions I had without taking a break Also, I recommend everyone reading all of those labels and watching videos about wolves. Overall, a great place to visit regardless of how old you are. read more

International Wolf Center - Zoos Near Me - Ely, Minnesota

This is a great place to visit. We learned much about wolves. The exhibits are interactive and informative. The presentations add even more. We could have sat and watched the ambassador wolves for hours. read more

Everything we had a amazing time the people know what they are doing and u will Remeber this forever read more

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Interesting to watch captive, non-breeding wolf interactions. Nice facility with informative, up to date displays, films and dioramas. Note: Get there early as wolfs are more active in the morning and save your money and DON"T pay for night time Howling Expedition as wolf's have NOT BEEN HEARD in over two years ! read more

I definitely recommend going here. It was a lot of fun and very informative. It's also a very good place to bring the kids. Lots to see and do. We lucked out because we got to see all the lives the day that we went since they were very active. If you want to see yourself a little cash make sure to register online at least a week before going. You'll save yourself about four dollars each ticket. In the parking lot is free and it's only minutes away from downtown Ely. They are supposed to be getting new pups in the next year so if you would like to go when they are doing the fostering program for the puppies wait itill 2020 read more

So fascinating watching these beautiful creatures. This is a very well organized facility and they take great pride in what they do. read more

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What a cool place. It's a modern facility with excellent amenities. It's formed in a semi circle so you can see the wolves in their natural habitat. There are 4 wolves living in the sanctuary and 3 in retirement. They were eating a deer when we got there. We came in with our scout troop and spent the night in the auditorium. You have an option to turn the mic on and hear them howl at about 4:00 am. We skipped that, but it sounded cool. Great times read more

International Wolf Center - Zoos Near Me - Ely, Minnesota

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This is a really lovely facility. I love the presentations they give in the auditorium area. There is a wall of windows to watch the wolves - if they're not hiding in the woods. Our son was having a lot of fun in the Wolf Den (play area) so we waited until they feeding time so we could get a chance to see something. Once those chicken wings came out, all the wolves came running. They're really stunning when you see them up close. I do wish there was a bit more to see. There is a theatre but I didn't peek in to see what was playing. Other than that there is one large room with a wealth of information to read. There are a lot of cool programs that would be neat to see if we lived closer - overnights and special feedings (I believe they get a deer every Saturday night, but I could be mistaken on that). It can be a little spendy, especially if you don't get a chance to see any animals. If you have a larger household or visit twice a year, a membership might be a good idea for you. It looks like they offer a lot of cool perks. Since we visited the bear center on the same day, we all got $1 off admission. read more

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Such a cool little spot to view wolves in their natural habitat! Service was great and informative upon entering the wolf center. Staff was helpful in regards to the history of the wolves within the area and the pack of wolves that currently live at the center. It was a display they held and staff showed a few artifacts that were quite helpful in understanding wolves and their current living arrangements. Everyone got to view the current wolves behind a glass wall and saw them in their natural wild sanctuary. It was pretty neat seeing how they interact in their daily life and how they are common to spot in the city of Ely. They even have a museum section with further information and artifacts to learn from, as well as a small cinema to view a video. The video pertains to the lifestyle and the habits of the wolves and gives a general brief history of the wolves being introduced to the area. I love how interactive this spot was, they had plenty of things to see and do. They also have a small gift shop to purchase items from. I can definitely see myself visiting this spot if in the area. Just seeing all the wolves within the city of Ely was neat. It's a great place to visit when venturing through the area up north MN. International Wolf Center is a must if bringing friends or family up north. Into the wild you go! read more

We decide to stop here because we had half a day before our Boundary Waters trip. Not only did I learn about wolves, but we also got to see wolves in their natural habitat. I know about the fact that zoos are kinda being kind of mean to animals just by putting them in pens, but this place seemed far better than an ordinary zoo. They have an acre of land for just four wolves and the wolves seem really well cared for. Sadly, they only educate wolves and use donations only to help care for their ambassador wolves and not actually hello the wolves. If I ever come back to Ely, then I will definitely check out the national bear center. read more

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Don't waste the money. It was super underwhelming . We saw two wolves through a window both were sleeping. It's a super tiny center and my kids were very bored within 15 minutes. There isn't a lot going on here. Also, lots of "masks recommended" signs everywhere. read more

We always love to visit the Wolf Center in Ely. It is a beautiful facility with well done exhibits and friendly staff, there's something for the whole family here! I really appreciate the mission of the center, it focuses on education and not politics, and they respect peoples opinions without trying so hard to beat everyone over the head with liberal environmental ideology. It's, literally, all about the wolves! Be sure you go check them out next time you are up north! read more

International Wolf Center - Zoos Near Me - Ely, Minnesota

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Only four wolves are usually on display in front of the giant glass windows (the auditorium). We visited the last weekend they were open for the season in October. We were fortunate that we were able to make the Arctic Wolves education session at 1 pm and ALL four wolves came out from their den. If we did not see the only four wolves on display, then our family would have been disappointed. We understand that some people can come to the Wolf Center and not see any wolves - so, it's possible you may be disappointed. Be warned that if you have teens, they may be disappointed because the Wolf Center does not have WiFi. I also found this a disappointment since it is an educational/entertainment facility and how can anyone do research/searching with no internet access. The educational exhibits were average and their presentation on Arctic Wolves was interesting. read more

This was a wonderful experience and we just so happened to get to see the wolves quite a lot throughout our visit as they were particularly active that day. Museum/informational part was nice, although a bit small, but interesting and interactive. Staff was very eager and helpful and informative. read more

More than a wolf center, it's a wolf sanctuary The Center is easy on the eyes with its smart use of natural lighting and thoughtful layout. When my partner and I first arrived, we were told that the wolves were out and about so we hurried to the back where there are massive windows and a small auditorium to watch the wolves. They had recently received a deer carcass and shortly thereafter were given beaver tails as well which allowed us to watch some fascinating behavior. The whole aura of the place was calm and respectful, with most speaking in hushed whispery tones. I would say that while it is a good place to take children (and indeed there were several children there while we visited) it is most definitely not like the zoo where you can go running from exhibit to exhibit. After watching the wolves for a bit (and you can tell that these are people who care deeply for their work with these animals), we walked back to the front with a circular museum with a lot of information regarding wolves and their relation to biology and their interaction with humans through history and culture. We also enjoyed the wolf art exhibit to the side which featured local artists' interpretations and allowed you to vote on them for a "People's Choice" award. I really appreciated the obvious devotion the Center has in regards to its mission and I hope it helps to raise awareness for their cause. read more

This was a good, quick leg-stretcher stop. The wolves were fun to watch. There were a lot of interactive exhibits and a play area for small children. read more

Great place to learn about these wonderful creatures and their impact on our environment. You'll fall in love with the wolves. Especially when yhey come to greet you at the window! read more

Absolutely loved this place! The staff was knowledgeable and friendly. Will be coming back with my sister in law, her husband and daughter and my nephew who has the same of love of wolves as I do and will absolutely love this place as well. can't wait to come back and visit! read more

It may not be clear that the exhibits are all indoors. If you have COVID concerns, you may want to go during the special hours for "vulnerable" guests. During regular hours, people wore masks but were not very careful about distancing. That said, the exhibits are well designed and interesting. You see the wolves through the glass walls of the building - at least, when the wolves feel like being seen. read more

Absolutely loved visiting. The wolves are stunning and the staff was absolutely wonderful. If you have a large family, consider getting the membership. You still get admitted as part of the fee but they also include money off at the gift shop and a magazine sub. We will be visiting again! read more

For our next stop, we visited the Wolf Center after lunch at Gators. Well, I was a bit sleepy but managed to see some wolves behind the glass window in the auditorium. Then, we went back to see the rest of the exhibits. These were more on history and culture. It was 2PM and we headed back to auditorium for talk. My wife stayed awake for it but I fell asleep. She said it was pretty good. Afterwards, we watched a film in the theater which was pretty good. It was getting close to our pre-booked Soudan underground Physics Lab tour at 4PM so we left at around 2:55PM. Overall, I wished there was a behind the scenes tours but not the same with bear center. Also, we were told that the wolf cubs would be shown in person next week once their cubs became acclimated with being outside. Ughh, it would have been nice to see them sooner but the staff member mentioned that they were in vulnerable state being newborns. Overall, this place was good but the Bear Center is better. read more

We attended the Wolf Center's overnight educational program. It was excellent and I highly recommend it for people (of any age) who love wolves and nature. The staff were extremely knowledgeable and friendly. The layout of the building's windows allows you to get up close (through the glass) with the wolves. We enjoyed the overnight program so much that we went back the following evening for the Saturday night "dinner" - where we got to observe the wolves eating their weekly deer carcass. We'll definitely be upgrading our Wolf Center membership and will be back to visit. We also enjoy the Center's social media and YouTube activities that keep you connected to the wolves even if you live far away. read more

International Wolf Center - The ambassador wolves are right on the other side of the glass and are very curious about the humans who are watching them. - Zoos Near Me - Ely, Minnesota

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Wonderful, fun, beautifully designed. We had so much fun at the Wolf Center. The staff was exceptionally knowledgable about the wolves. We got to see the wolf pups up close and watch them chew on a frozen beaver. Wonderful place for families. read more

We saw 2 wolves for a few minutes. Educational but not worth the price at all! Trigger warning- there was a dead deer with no legs and it's ribs exposed sitting right in front of the window... be warned.. pretty wolves tjo read more

We visited the Wolf Center on a gorgeous sunny weekend in mid-May. My 9-year old daughter is a wolf fanatic and for her birthday, we made the trip from California. Wow was it worth the schlep! What a fascinating, well-run and comprehensive museum. As the Center makes clear, their mission is to educate not advise on policy. So they don't take sides on the prickly rancher vs. wolf issue, but rather present the facts. But they present them thoughtfully and clearly. Everything felt up-to-date and modern; there were binders of the latest scientific research on wolves available to read. The exhibits on wolf pack dynamics, howling, and cross-cultural wolf lore were compelling and the children's section was perfect for our two young ones. There were stencils for them to draw wolf packs, dens for them to climb into and plenty of easy-to-understand sections on wolf behavior. My daughter even wrote a wolf myth for possible publication in International Wolf, the Center's magazine. The auditorium showed continuous movies on wolves and other wildlife. But best of all was the large viewing area for the resident pack of ambassador wolves. My daughter had "adopted" one of them and she was delighted to sit and watch him interact with his pack mates. What a treat! I can't recommend this place enough. Admittedly, Ely is remote. But it is exceptionally beautiful (those lakes! Canoeing!) and the International Wolf Center should be a must-see if you are anywhere near the area. read more

Don't expect to see any wolves unless you pay extra fee and show up on Saturday night during the weekly feeding.

First visited the Wolf Center 4 years ago. Have been back every year since and love it even more each time we come! The staff are very friendly!! They are always looking to improve the environment of their ambassador wolves. read more

I had some family visiting from California, and I had always been intrigued by the billboards for the international wolf center so I thought it would be a fun place to take them to! It's $13 per person which adds up with 4 people and it was just mediocre. There is a viewing area where we saw three of the wolves they had, and then there was a movie playing in the theater about wolves which was very pixilated so it made it hard to watch, and the movie itself is probably 20 years old and just not very interesting. The human and wolves interaction area was probably the best part as there is a lot of information about wolves that you can read about. And that's it. We were there for maybe 45 minutes? If it was free or even 5 bucks a person it would be like "okay that was kinda boring but it was free and we learned something", but $52 dollars later and 4 people walking out saying "did we miss something? Was that really it?" is kind of a bummer :( hopefully the money goes towards wolf research, etc! I think if you had kids it would be better as the fee for children is much smaller and there is a children's interaction place that would probably be fun for them! The employees were very friendly so I did appreciate that. read more