Deciding between a tour to West Rim or the South Rim of the Grand Canyon while visiting Las Vegas? It's a hard choice. Both attractions are worth the trip. However, there are a few logistical and budgetary differences amongst the two that can help solve the dilemma for you.

For your consideration:

Time

Driving from Las Vegas to the West Rim takes 2.5 hours and from Vegas to the South Rim takes 5.5 hours. Budget a whole day for either trip. West Rim bus tours will have you back on The Strip by 6.p.m. while South Rim bus tours will get you back to your resort-hotel by 9 p.m.

How Far Is It?

The driving distance from Las Vegas to the West Rim is 128 miles and 279 miles to the South Rim. Both are relatively long trips. Fortunately, today's motor coach has all the amenities, including plush seats and a clean bathroom. Most tours include lots of rest stops where you can get off the bus and stretch your legs. Some include a photo stop at Hoover Dam.

Activities

Here's where the two Rims start to separate. The West Rim has more man-made attractions; the South, more natural ones. The infrastructure (dining, lodging, amenities) is more developed at South Rim. Here are specifics:

South Rim

Lookouts

This part of the Park is packed with famous lookouts, including Mather Point, Yaki Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Hermit's Rest and more.

Restaurants

Plenty of casual dining here. The Bright Angel Lodge restaurant serves up home-style cooking that's priced right. Go to Maswick Lodge for cafeteria-style dining. There is a small snack bar behind the Lodge Restaurant. High-end dining (and cocktails) can be had at El Tovar. Near Mather Campground is a supermarket with deli, fried foods, and pizza.

Souvenir Shops

There are mementos for everyone. For Native American crafts, shop Hopi House (can be expensive). The Bright Angel Lodge has the best variety. If you can't find what you want there, head over to Verkamp's and Lookout Studio. Visit Kolb Studio for fine western art.

Grand Canyon West

The Glass Walkway

The Glass Bridge has grown into Las Vegas' hottest "off-Strip" attraction. More than 1 million people have "walked the sky" since the bridge opened in 2007. It's a terrific structure: Made of special glass, it extends 70 feet over the Canyon, wherein you are suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River.

Hualapai Ranch

Re-created western town replete with cowboys and gunfights. Horse riding and river rafting starts here. Helicopter flights take travelers bottom of the Canyon. Over-night accommodations are available for longer stays.

View Points

The most popular lookout is Eagle Point. Views are incredible. Be aware that at present there are no guard-rails. There's also an Indian Village where that includes tee pees, native homes, and an outdoor amphitheater where the Hualapai share their culture through dance and singing performances.

Gift Shops/Food

The West Rim is still evolving. Currently, there's the gift shop run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe. Inside, the facility is nicely supplied with souvenirs and snacks. Most bus tours will include lunch, which will most likely be a barbecue meal prepared for you by the Hualapai.

The Weather

The South Rim, elevation 7,000 feet, is 1,500 feet higher than the West Rim, so count on cooler temperatures. That said, both rims are home to extreme weather conditions. Here's a quick look at annual temperatures for both rims:

Glass Bridge/West Rim

Elevation is 4,700 feet.

Jan. - March Average high temperature: 70 degrees. Average low: 43 degrees.

April - June: Average high temperature: 96 degrees. Average low: 65 degrees.

July - Sept.: Avg. high temp.: 105 degrees. Average low: 76 degrees.

Oct. - Dec.: Avg high temp.: 76 degrees. Avg. low: 46 degrees.

South Rim

Elv.: 6,000 feet

Jan. - March Average high temperature: 45 degrees. Average low: 21 degrees.

April - June Average high temperature: 69 degrees. Average low: 39 degrees.

July - Sept.: Avg. high temp.: 82 degrees. Average low: 52 degrees.

Oct. - Dec.: Average high temperature: 52 degrees. Average low: 27 degrees.

What to Wear & What to Bring

Warm layers in the winter months and wind-resistant, cool clothing in the summer. Count on winter snow at the South Rim and wear pants, shoes and a jacket (it's not uncommon to see people in shorts!). During the summer make sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water in order to stay hydrated.

How Much Does It Cost?

Tours to the West Rim start under $100. South Rim at $79. Tour prices are all-inclusive and come with all entrance fees, lunch, and guide. Book online to get the best price. Tickets to the Grand Canyon Skywalk cost $29.95 for adults and $22.95 for kids.

Let's Go!

South Rim or West Rim? Hmmm.... Both are stunningly beautiful and offer plenty of things to do. Truth of the matter is it depends on your budget and how much time you have. If you evaluate a rim trip based on these two criteria, I assure you that you will find the Grand Canyon tour that best meets your needs.