Westin Vs JW
Hi we are coming to Disneyland in mid November, not Thanksgiving week. We have park tickets for 3 days and plan to spend two nights in a hotel. We are traveling with my daughter, son in law and their two kids, 4 and 1 1/2 year olds. We plan to spend two days in the Magic Kingdom park and one day in Adventureland. We will be there on a Thurs, Fri and Saturday.
Now, I have reserved two hotels with two rooms at each hotel. One is 50$ cheaper overall so not a big price difference. I have the JW and the Westin reserved. My husband has Platinum status at Marriott properties, so we should get free breakfast. We are paying for the rooms and not using points.
Which property would you favor over the other? Thanks!
Both the JW Marriott and Westin Anaheim Resort are excellent hotels near Disneyland, and since your price difference is minimal, the decision mostly comes down to location, amenities, and your specific family needs, especially with two small children.
Key Considerations:
- Location to Disneyland: Both hotels are within walking distance of the Disneyland Resort. The JW Marriott is slightly closer to Downtown Disney, while the Westin is a short walk as well. Both offer easy access, but the JW might shave a few extra minutes off your walk.
- Breakfast and Marriott Platinum Status: Since your husband has Platinum status, you should receive complimentary breakfast at both properties. This is a significant perk with small children, as you can fuel up before park mornings without extra cost.
- Family-Friendliness: Both hotels cater well to families. The Westin has a very large outdoor pool with a kids’ area and is known for its family-friendly vibe. JW Marriott also has a pool, but Westin’s pool layout may be more appealing to young kids who want to splash around.
- Room Layout: Both hotels offer spacious rooms. Westin may have a slight advantage with connecting rooms or suites if you need them, making it convenient with a 1½ and 4-year-old. JW Marriott offers modern, stylish rooms but might feel slightly more adult-oriented in design.
- Dining Options: JW Marriott has more upscale dining options on-site if you want a nice dinner without leaving the hotel. Westin has a good casual restaurant and poolside dining, which is convenient for kids.
- Check-in/Check-out Convenience: Both hotels provide early check-in options depending on availability, which can be useful for early park mornings. JW Marriott tends to have a more streamlined check-in process.
Additional Tips:
- Consider how much time you plan to spend in the hotel versus the parks. If the pool is important to the kids, Westin may be preferable.
- If you value slightly closer proximity to Downtown Disney and a more refined, quiet atmosphere after long park days, JW Marriott could edge out.
- Since the price difference is minimal, using Marriott Platinum status benefits (like breakfast and potential room upgrades) makes either option a good value.
Summary Recommendation:
If your focus is maximum kid enjoyment and a casual, family-friendly environment with a great pool, the Westin may be slightly better. If you prefer slightly closer access to Downtown Disney, a more upscale hotel experience, and streamlined check-in, the JW Marriott is ideal. Either hotel will serve your family well for two nights, especially with the convenience of Marriott Platinum benefits.
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