If you’ve spent any time in Minnesota, you may have noticed that people here really love saunas. Many own northern cabins with saunas on the property, and some even build them in or near their primary residence. It makes sense that saunas are so popular here: many of Minnesota’s first European immigrants were from northern Europe, where saunas originated. They likely caught on as a way to escape our region’s frigid winter cold.

Today, most people use private saunas or spend time in saunas at gyms or spas. But there’s actually a public sauna in Minnesota. It’s the oldest of its kind in the state, and it’s in Ely, Minnesota. Take a look:

Ely Steam Sauna is a public sauna in Ely, Minnesota. Open since 1915, it is the oldest public sauna in Minnesota. It’s also one of the oldest saunas of its kind in the nation!
Devin LaPlante/Google
Ely Steam Sauna is a popular place for locals and visitors alike. Many people stop in after a Boundary Waters excursion, though there are plenty of regulars as well. It is a place where people enjoy socializing as well as relaxing.
Ely Steam Sauna/Facebook
The sauna is open only a few days a week - on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. There are two sessions each evening, so there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy.
Ely Steam Sauna/Facebook

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There are also separate sauna rooms. There’s a public women’s and public men’s sauna, as well as private rooms that can fit three to five people. There’s even a kid’s sauna.
Ely Steam Sauna/Facebook
Being a steam sauna, guests can control the conditions of the room. Pull a chain to release moisture onto the boiler, which then releases steam.
Ely Steam Sauna/Facebook
Each visit may last up to 90 minutes and includes access to the sauna as well as soap, a towel, and access to the shower area.
Ely Steam Sauna/Facebook
Whether you’re looking for the relaxation or relief that a sauna can bring, or you’re just looking for something interesting to do in Ely, a trip to this historic spot will give you both. Next time you’re in town, make an appointment at Ely Steam Sauna!
Ely Steam Sauna/Facebook

For more information about Ely Steam Sauna, including hours, appointments, and more, visit the business’s website and Facebook page. And if you’re looking for more things to do in Ely, check out our past article about Ely for some ideas!

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Featured Addresses
Ely Steam Bath, 127 S 1st Ave E, Ely, MN 55731, USA