Three stars for the tour (interesting for sure) and the Christmas lights in the cactus garden are awesome. But really? I don't get the hype. See's blows Ethel M out of the water. Hands down.
The gift shop is cute and I think a tourist might appreciate all the kitschy little things there-lots of Vegas themed chocolate stuff. Bring a good amount of money though cause it's not inexpensive-that's for sure.
So go for the tour and come back at Christmas for the lights. That's where it's at!