Which Grand Canyon Rim Should You Visit?

It's the question most asked at the outset of Grand Canyon vacation planning: Which rim should I visit? Without knowing anything about your travel plans, personality, budget or time table, we recommend the South Rim. Hands down, the South Rim is THE place to visit at the Grand Canyon. It's often described as "the real Grand Canyon" and it's the part of the National Park that you've undoubtedly seen in movies, photographs and magazines. Truth be told, we might recommend the South Rim even if we DID know your travel plans, personality, budget and time table, but since we can't get to know all 5+ million visitors the Grand Canyon attracts each year, we've put together this handy comparison chart of the South, West and North Rims side by side.

Where Should You Start?

It may help you to narrow your options just by knowing which city you'll be starting from. If you're starting in Phoenix, you're most likely to choose the South Rim for your trip. Likewise, if your visit will originate in Las Vegas, it'd certainly make sense to consider the West Rim. Of course, there are other variables that may influence your decision in the end. For example, if you have your heart set on taking a helicopter and landing on the floor of the Canyon, then the West Rim is right for you. On the other hand, if you're really into camping, hiking and near solitude, then be sure to choose the North Rim. Finally, if you want to see other attractions and activities besides the Grand Canyon, then the South Rim is right up your alley. Only you know what your needs and priorities are, so check out the criteria and available options to help you decide which rim to visit.

SOME GRAND CANYON TRIP IDEAS

Maverick Airlines: Fly To The Grand Canyon

Fly to the Grand Canyon and enjoy our air or land tours through one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Maverick Airlines offers you an exclusive check-in terminal with VIP customer service. Maverickâ€™s aircraft will fly you to the Grand Canyon National Park where you will experience one of our elite Grand Canyon air and land tours. You will take pleasure in the awe-inspiring scenery the Southwest has to offer at one of marvels of the world.

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Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours | Private Tours Available | Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Grand Canyon/Tusayan

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9.5

Maverick Helicopter Tours

Maverick Helicopters provides helicopter tours to the Grand Canyon. Maverick brings VIP and first-class service to the Grand Canyon. Maverick's helicopters are climate-controlled, specifically built for sightseeing with unobstructed views. Maverick is the world's largest operator of ECO-Star helicopters. They give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon. Maverick takes you further and deeper into the Grand Canyon than any other company.

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Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Grand Canyon/Tusayan

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9.5

Grand Canyon Railway

Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation … More

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Family-Friendly | Leaves from Williams

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9.9

Pink Jeep Tours

Enjoy first-class comfort with a passionate tour guide to the Grand Canyon's stunning West Rim. Travel by Tour Trekker and transform your trip into the experience of a lifetime, creating memories of the history, geology and more from expert guides.

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9.5

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company! Daily multilingual tours of Grand Canyon departing from Grand Canyon Airport at the South Rim near Tusayan. Choose from a variety of Helicopter Tours, whether you have 1 hour or several to see the Grand Canyon.

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Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Grand Canyon/Tusayan | Optional Skywalk Tour

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9.9

Wildland Trekking

Go on an epic journey to the Grand Canyon! Services include 1 to 8 day hiking adventures, tasty backcountry cuisine, and quality gear served up by America's most experienced and knowledgeable Grand Canyon guides. 25+ years experience in adventure travel.

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Popular Hikes | Professionally Guided | Popular Hikes | Leaves from Flagstaff | Leaves from Grand Canyon/Tusayan

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9.5

Best Grand Canyon Day Tour

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five million people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.

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Family-Friendly | Leaves from Flagstaff | Optional Air Tour | Professionally Guided | Lunch Provided

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9.9

Sedona Real Inn & Suites - South Rim

Our family-owned and operated inn feels different from other Sedona hotels because it is. When you're here, you'll experience the comfort and convenience that you're used to in your own home. With our very own pet-friendly park, sparkling pool, and fitness center, many of our guests enjoy spending part of their Sedona vacation relaxing with us. With a country inn atmosphere, and bed and breakfast feel, each of the 42 traditional rooms and 47 spacious suites offer comfortable accommodations. All our rooms include complimentary WiFi and a hot breakfast bar to get your day started! Your four-legged family members will love our grassy outside play area with a barbecue and fire-pit. The concierge is on-site daily to share the best things to do in Sedona.

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9.1
134 reviews

Grand Canyon Airlines

Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in ei … More

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9.5

Little America Hotel Flagstaff - South Rim

Little America is truly one of the best Flagstaff hotels. From our 500-acre private forest to our friendly, knowledgeable concierge staff, Little America exemplifies the adventurous spirit and hospitality of Grand Canyon area Flagstaff hotels.

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9.3
2054 reviews

The Mountain Star - South Rim

The best vacation home rental between the Grand Canyon and Flagstaff Located in the heart of the Coconino National Forest along the San Francisco Peaks scenic corridor between the mountain town of Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Less than one hour's drive from the Grand Canyon National Park south entrance through scenic countryside, this spectacular and convenient location sets The Mountain Star apart from properties located within the city of Flagstaff, the town of Williams and other rural locations. It can be rented for as little as 2 days, but is a perfect place for extended stays. Come experience why The Mountain Star has received well over two hundred (and growing) 5-star reviews.