I think people are overly-critical of Westgate.
To me, it is just one of many outdoor-style shopping and entertainment districts in Arizona. They are nearly identical. Movie theaters, chain restaurants, some retail stores, lots of parking, and some type of water feature for kids to play in while their parents sit down and watch them.
For Westgate, the only difference is that it sits at the foot of two professional sports stadiums (Cardinals and Coyotes), which makes parking and nights out a nightmare for folks who aren't going to a game.
Why?
Parking and crowds. That's why.
Other than that, I find Westgate to be a decent alternative to other shopping areas in the west valley. Better than Crossroads at Tolleson or P83 in Peoria (worst name ever by the way). My only other advice would be to not come for a movie and dinner on a night that the Coyotes or Cardinals are playing. Parking is nearly impossible and it will likely cost you to do it.
My only other criticism with Westgate is the fact that the area around it still hasn't developed into the west valley utopia that it was supposed to become. It feels empty out there still. I know there are the standard suburban complexes nearby, but the emptiness and wind still make me feel like Westgate is in the middle of nowhere.