When it was established in 1929, the Hotel Nevada became Ely’s premiere dining and lodging destination becoming the economic heart of a bustling downtown Ely. (The Hotel Nevada added live gambling when it was legalized in 1931).
As Ely has evolved over the years from Nevada’s largest mining town to one of the state’s best-known stops on America’s Loneliest Highway, the hotel has maintained its place of distinction by offering a comfortable, central location for all visitors to White Pine County.
Visitors come to Ely during all four seasons because of its majestic alpine beauty where there is enough western-style hospitality to fill sun-drenched days and high desert nights.
Some of the most noteworthy Hotel Nevada guests include Ingrid Bergman, Gary Cooper, Mikey Rooney, Stephen King, Tennessee Ernie Ford and Charlie Rich. Guests who have entertained at the hotel include Wanda Jackson, Wayne Newton, Vikki Carr and The Ink Spots.
People flock to Ely throughout the year to participate in some of White Pine County’s noteworthy specialty events. The Fire & Ice Festival kicks off the year in early January. Spring arrives with a zoom as the town welcomes The Nevada Open Road Challenge in May. The White Pine County Fair in August will take you back in time. The Astronomy Festival at Great Basin National Park is incredible. The Polar Express at Nevada Northern Railway runs through the holiday season. For more information on special events , please visit The White Pine County County Tourism & Recreation Board (www.elynevada.net)
While in the area, the Hotel Nevada recommends guests take some time to visit some of the one-of-a-kind Ely experiences our neighbors have on offer. A few of our favorites are listed below with a more complete list available at The White Pine County Tourism & Recreation Board Website.