I would recommend the Westin Kierland for:
Family vacations
Corporate meetings/events
Golfing vacations
I would not necessarily recommend the Westin for a couples retreat/romantic getaway. They do have an adult only pool area, but overall the place is filled with young kids/families especially during school break periods as well as conferences.
Also, while the service is good it is certainly not at the level of the Phoenician or Four Seasons. So good to temper your expectations despite the high pricing!
Pros:
-- Great kids programs including daily activities, kids club/PJ nights, and s'mores!
-- Large, expansive spaces for relaxing/walking
-- Solid golf course right on property
-- Great pool area for kids. Not the best ever but a nice lazy river/slide.
-- Awesome location in walking distance from two huge shopping and dining complexes -- Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter
-- Bagpipes at sunset!
-- Snakes in the lobby :)
Cons:
-- Service good but a little inconsistent. Some really amazing employees, but inconsistent housekeeping, check-in process, and cabana service
-- Food service hours at the pool could be longer (ends at 4pm at least in April)
-- Main casual restaurant onsite (Nellie Cashman's) great for breakfast, but dinner was just average
-- Casita came with huge full sized fridge, but zero other amenities e.g. cups/spoons/microwave. Weird given it's a large kitchen area with no kitchen!
Overall, though, I would definitely return with kids though would choose the Phoenician for a vacation without kids.