Anyone stay at the Westin? Any tips?

Question

Of course I have looked at reviews and whatnot.

But im a little worried about the location. Happy to have a nice river view. And the mall is nice for my kids and senior relatives (2 kids, 4 seniors).

Any other tips? Anyone stay there and have any advice?

Answer

The Westin New Orleans is a solid choice for families, especially with kids and senior relatives. It’s located on the edge of the French Quarter, which can be both an advantage and a bit of a concern, depending on what you're looking for in your stay. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons, plus some tips to make the most of your time there:

Location: The Westin is located on the edge of the French Quarter, right along the Mississippi River, which means you'll have a nice river view. While it's a bit away from the more bustling parts of the French Quarter, you’re still close enough to walk to most of the main attractions (about 10–15 minutes to the heart of the French Quarter). This can be an advantage if you want a more relaxed, quieter area to stay while still being close to the action.

However, the surrounding area can feel a bit more commercial and less scenic compared to the lively heart of the French Quarter. For families with kids and seniors, this could be a good thing because it's a little less chaotic, but it also means you're not right in the middle of the vibrant street life of Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. Still, the location is great for accessing the Riverwalk, which is nearby and has shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas—perfect for kids and family activities.

Riverwalk Mall: One of the best things about the Westin is its proximity to the Riverwalk Mall. It’s an easy walk for seniors and families and offers a wide range of shops and food options. Plus, it has a relaxed, air-conditioned space to escape the heat, which can be a lifesaver with younger kids and older family members. There are also some attractions like the Louisiana Children’s Museum nearby, which is great for kids.

Family-Friendly Tips:

River Views: If you can, request a room with a river view. It’s a lovely way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and the view is very peaceful.
Walking Distance: You’re within walking distance to the Mississippi River, and the boardwalk along the riverfront is very pleasant for a stroll. It’s an easy place to go for a walk with kids or older relatives.
Transportation: If walking long distances isn’t ideal for the seniors, consider taking a streetcar ride. The streetcar stops are nearby and offer a great way to see parts of New Orleans without too much walking. You can easily get to the Garden District or uptown areas from the Westin.
Accessibility: The Westin is very accessible for people with mobility issues, so the hotel should have no problem accommodating seniors or people who need extra assistance. Be sure to ask for rooms that are located closer to the elevator if needed.
Dining: While the hotel itself has a restaurant, you might also want to explore nearby dining options. The French Quarter has plenty of family-friendly restaurants, but it can get crowded, so it’s good to plan ahead. There are also great options in the Riverwalk Mall, especially for quick meals or snacks for the kids.

Nearby Attractions: Since you’re near the Riverwalk, you have easy access to the aquarium, as well as the National WWII Museum, which is a short walk away. The museum can be educational and fun for older kids and adults, though it may not hold the youngest kids’ attention as much. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to check out the nearby parks or take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi for a unique view of the city.

Overall, the Westin is a great family-friendly hotel in a good location for visiting New Orleans with kids and seniors. While it's not right in the middle of the action in the French Quarter, it offers a quieter stay with easy access to attractions, dining, and shopping. The Riverwalk Mall and nearby waterfront areas make it convenient and comfortable for families, and the hotel itself offers great amenities like an outdoor pool and spacious rooms.

As for your concerns about the location, I think it’s a good balance between staying close to the French Quarter without being in the middle of the hustle and bustle. It should be a pleasant and enjoyable stay for your family!

Anyone stay at the Westin? Any tips?

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