Location: 3 Stars
With an address on Katella Avenue instead of Harbor Boulevard, you might think that the Westin isn't close to Disneyland at all. Actually, it's located just one block south of the Pixar Place Hotel at the corner of Katella and Disneyland Drive which means that it's far closer to Downtown Disney than the Harbor entrance to the parks. If you're willing to walk a short distance, you can make it from the front of the hotel to the security checkpoint in Downtown Disney in less than 15 minutes. From there, it's just a short walk through the shopping district or a ride on the Disneyland Monorail.
The walk is beautiful, too! The grounds of the Westin are so immaculate they match Disney quality so as you cross Katella Avenue it's a seamless transition from one property to the other. It's also nice to avoid some of the hustle that can plague Harbor Boulevard, especially at night. You'll see very few guests and just a few CMs on your way.
What's walkable for us may not be walkable for everyone. If this is too great a distance for you, the Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) shuttle service stops right outside the hotel. Remember that this is available for a per person, per day fee.
The walk is beautiful, too! The grounds of the Westin are so immaculate they match Disney quality so as you cross Katella Avenue it's a seamless transition from one property to the other. It's also nice to avoid some of the hustle that can plague Harbor Boulevard, especially at night. You'll see very few guests and just a few CMs on your way.
What's walkable for us may not be walkable for everyone. If this is too great a distance for you, the Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) shuttle service stops right outside the hotel. Remember that this is available for a per person, per day fee.
Accommodations: 4 Stars
This is luxury! As a 4-diamond hotel, you'd expect nothing less, but the rooms are immaculate and spacious. You can choose from a standard room, studio, or larger suite but each features high-end finishes and features. Theme park view rooms overlook Pixar Pier reminding you just how close to the magic you really are. The bathrooms are elegant and can include a separate tub and shower - perfect for those who like to unwind with a bath. If you're like me, you appreciate when the toiletries and in-room soaps are particularly pleasant and the scent is not overly generic. Trust me when I say that you'll love the signature Westin scent of white tea and lavender (wanted to steal some - didn't, but wanted to). I'm often very judgmental about pullout beds since they tend to make uncomfortable sofas, but such is not the case here! The beds themselves are even noticeably nicer than typical hotel mattresses which makes for an extra restful night (not just because you're exhausted from a day in the parks).
Amenities: 4 Stars
Where do I begin? It's not unusual for hotels of this caliber to offer a laundry list of amenities to guests, but the Westin has almost too many to mention. I'll do my best.
The basics are covered well from a large 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center to a gorgeous pool area (with ample seating, I may add) perfect for those wanting to relax or families looking for a little water playtime. The bell service and concierge desks are more than accommodating and, on the whole, the staff is about as pleasant, professional, and knowledgable as any I've ever encountered.
Similar to those you may find at Disney properties, there's a whole collective of restaurants on property to choose from and I would suggest you check out at least some of them. People have raved online about Puesto (a Mexican restaurant) and there's a full-service bar and restaurant in the lobby but I would counter all that with my take on Blossom Cafe & Marketplace. This is the quick-service option on site and has exquisite pastries, entrees (breakfast, lunch, & dinner), and freshly squeezed juices but I have two words for you: horchata latte. Honestly, I think it tastes more like a churro, and we all know how much I live for those, but I'm still thinking about it and will probably make it a point to stop by Blossom regularly to get another!
For a more exclusive experience, you can try the Rise Rooftop Bar which has excellent views of the parks and fireworks. You can feel extra bougie at the Westin Club, available only to Marriott Bonvoy Elite Platinum members & above or for $125/day for up to 4 guests. They serve a small breakfast in the mornings and snacks in the afternoon, but the service is unrivaled and so convenient.
The basics are covered well from a large 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center to a gorgeous pool area (with ample seating, I may add) perfect for those wanting to relax or families looking for a little water playtime. The bell service and concierge desks are more than accommodating and, on the whole, the staff is about as pleasant, professional, and knowledgable as any I've ever encountered.
Similar to those you may find at Disney properties, there's a whole collective of restaurants on property to choose from and I would suggest you check out at least some of them. People have raved online about Puesto (a Mexican restaurant) and there's a full-service bar and restaurant in the lobby but I would counter all that with my take on Blossom Cafe & Marketplace. This is the quick-service option on site and has exquisite pastries, entrees (breakfast, lunch, & dinner), and freshly squeezed juices but I have two words for you: horchata latte. Honestly, I think it tastes more like a churro, and we all know how much I live for those, but I'm still thinking about it and will probably make it a point to stop by Blossom regularly to get another!
For a more exclusive experience, you can try the Rise Rooftop Bar which has excellent views of the parks and fireworks. You can feel extra bougie at the Westin Club, available only to Marriott Bonvoy Elite Platinum members & above or for $125/day for up to 4 guests. They serve a small breakfast in the mornings and snacks in the afternoon, but the service is unrivaled and so convenient.
Value: 4 Stars
Yes, this is a luxury resort and so rooms do not come cheap. That said, you would easily pay double the price or more for a stay at the Grand Californian, the nearest comparable resort. There are certain Disney amenities available only at the Grand, but if you have a hard time justifying that price tag for your budget, then this is an easy choice. The Westin gives you a lot of "bang for your buck" and you will not feel the need to justify or rationalize anything because you'll be too busy enjoying your room and everything else the hotel has to offer. This isn't an option for every family or traveler to Anaheim, but if you're willing to spend the money then I highly recommend it.