The International Wolf Center offers programs that enhance in-person and online educational experiences. Our ambassador wolves reinforce our educational messages by creating a connection with each one of our visitors. Take a look below at the variety of programs we have and plan your visit today!
HOURS AND LOCATION
Winter Hours
Oct. 20 – May 21
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays.
The Center will be closed on the following dates:
- November 28-30 – Thanksgiving Weekend
- December 26-28 – Weekend after Christmas
Summer Hours
May 22, 2026 – October 20, 2026
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
1396 Highway 169
Ely, Minnesota 55731-8129
Telephone: 218-365-4695
TTY Relay Service: dial 711
E-mail: programs@wolf.org
ADMISSION FEES
Admission includes all daily programs, film presentations in our theater, the Discover Wolves! and Little Wolf exhibits and our live ambassador wolves.
Save on admission when you pre-register.
- Members
- FREE
- Adults
- $18
- Seniors 60+ & Veterans
- $16
- Child* (4-12)
- $12
- Child* (3 and under)
- FREE
Note: Prices do not include fees and taxes.
Note: Wolves are curious and will generally come out during a program in the auditorium. However, they are wild animals, so we cannot guarantee that you will see the wolves during a particular program.
Daily Programs
These programs are included with admission.
Topics and times are subject to change.
Specialty Programs
(small additional fee for after hours programs)
Ambassadors to the Wild
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays – 10:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m.
Learn about our ambassador wolves! This program introduces the Center as well as each of our ambassador wolves, their histories, and the socialization process that helps them to be ambassadors for their counterparts in the wild.
Gray Wolf 101
Fridays and Saturdays – 11:15 a.m., 3: 15 p.m.
Sundays – 11:15 a.m.
The gray wolf is a social carnivore found in a variety of regions throughout the northern hemisphere. This program provides an overview about the gray wolf species, including hunting, pack dynamics, and communication.
Growing up Wolf Pups
Fridays and Saturdays – 2:15 p.m.
Sundays – 12:15 p.m.
What is it like to grow up as a wolf? Step into the shoes of our wolf care staff and follow our ambassador wolves through their first year of life. You’ll learn about the stages of pup development and how we raise wolves at the International Wolf Center.
Paint with the Pack
Pre-registration is required.
April 18, June 20, August 8, October 31, December 12
Non-member $79.50; Member $74.20
Join us for a relaxing evening of art and wolves!
You’ll enjoy observing our ambassador wolf pack at their most active while exercising your creativity. Dafne Caruso, a local Ely artist, will guide participants in creating their own original artwork to take home. After the art, finish off your evening by observing our pack dining on their weekly carcass meal.
Please note: Attendance at “What’s for Dinner?” feeding program is included in registration for Paint with the Pack, but is optional.
What’s for Dinner?
There is limited capacity for this program.
Pre-registration is required.
Saturdays at 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Adult Non-member $12; Adult Member $10
Child Non-member (4-12) $8; Child Member $6
Children 3 and under FREE
Ever wondered what dinner time looks like for a wolf? Join us every Saturday at 7 p.m. for the legendary “What’s for Dinner?” program. Witness the Exhibit Pack weekly feeding. It’s a unique opportunity to observe the feeding rituals of wolves, from dining to caching. An experience you’ll not want to miss!
Behind the Scenes
Pre-registration is required.
Tuesdays and Thursdays 4 p.m.
June 3 through July 31
Adult Non-member $17; Adult Member $15
Child Non-member (6-12) $12; Child Member $10
Not suitable for children under six.
Get ready for our exclusive, up-close experience, Behind the Scenes program! Dive into the secretive world of ambassador wolves. This is your golden ticket to uncover the mysteries of these majestic creatures and the dedicated team behind their care. Don’t miss out—secure your spot now at wolf.org!
Attention Members: Pre-register between March 1 – May 22 for a discounted price.
Looking for a weekend adventure? Our expert wolf educators have developed challenging and memorable programs for you to enjoy in Minnesota’s northwoods. Register for an Adventure Program today!
FAQ’s
Are there live wolves at the Center?
Yes! The Center cares for a pack of “ambassador” wolves that help educate visitors about wolf behavior through direct observation. The ambassador wolves can be seen through viewing windows overlooking their 1.25-acre wooded enclosure. Find out more about our current ambassadors here (link to meet our wolves).
Are there any opportunities to interact with the wolves?
For the health and safety of our visitors and our ambassador wolves, we do not allow direct interaction between the public and our ambassador wolves. Visitors can see our wolves through large glass windows that look into their enclosure. If you would like an opportunity to observe the wolves through the fence in our outdoor area and have a Q&A with our wolf care staff, check out our Behind-the-Scenes programs offered each year, June-August! (include link?)
What is the best time to see the wolves?
Wolves tend to be more active in the mornings and late afternoons, but even while resting, they are often within sight of the viewing area windows. Our ambassadors live in a natural, wooded, 1.25-acre enclosure that is designed for their well-being, so there may be times when they are out of view of visitors. To encourage the wolves to come into view, we offer them enrichments (new and interesting things to investigate) at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. each day during our summer hours from the end of May through the end of October.
Is there a tour?
The Center is self-guided, so there are no designated tours during general admission. Visitors are welcome to explore the exhibits, play in our kid-friendly Little Wolf area, observe the ambassador wolves, watch documentaries in our theater, shop in the Wolf Den Store, or attend a presentation with an educator, in whatever order they choose.
Is the Center indoors or outdoors?
Everything included in general admission is indoors, so you can enjoy it in all seasons and all weather!
How long should we plan to spend at the Center?
Visit length varies by group, but most visitors spend about 2 hours at the Center.
What ages is the Center suitable for?
Visitors of all ages can enjoy our accessible facility. Our interactive daily presentations are intended for a broad audience. Our large Discover Wolves! exhibit pairs in-depth wolf information with a variety of different media and interactive elements to keep all learners engaged. Our Little Wolf children’s exhibit provides a space for immersive, imaginative play and learning for families, too!
Are there any special events going on?
Specialty programs like “What’s for Dinner?” take place on specific days year-round or during specific seasons. If you are interested in a longer experience, check out our Adventure Programs!
What is included in What’s for Dinner?
What’s for Dinner? is a specialty program offered on Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. There is a short program on the hunting and feeding behavior of wolves before our wolves are fed their main meal of the week (usually road-killed deer). International Wolf Center educators are available to answer your questions. General admission or access to the exhibits is not included in this after-hours program. Pre-registration is required.
Do you have RV parking?
Yes. We have a large parking lot with parking areas designed to accommodate RVs. Overnight parking is not allowed.
Can I bring my pet with me?
No. Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed to join you on your visit to our facility. If your pet is traveling with you, please make separate plans for your pet to keep them safe on hot summer days. Trained service animals are allowed in most areas.
ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to making the International Wolf Center a fun and inviting place for everyone.
Learn more about the Center’s accessibility.
The International Wolf Center bans guns on its premises.
