After a long eight-hour drive, we easily found The Westin Jackson, located in the downtown arts and cultural district. The newly opened 203-room property marks the brand’s debut in the state and is three blocks from the Jackson Convention Complex and steps from the Mississippi Museum of Art.

Arriving in the early evening, we immediately checked in and freshened up in our traditional king guestroom. Decorated in grays, the fabric of the contemporary lounging couch appeared to be silver, taupe or gold green, depending on the time of day. The amply stocked minibar items ranged from a large bag of kettle corn to a half bottle of wine. The complimentary Starbucks coffee is a perk we always appreciate. WiFi is free for Starwood Preferred Guest members, otherwise $12.95 per day. Below the leaf-shaped bathroom mirror was a collection of White Tea Aloe bath amenities and a comfy robe on the wall.

The Westin embraces staying fit, and guests can continue their workout regimes while away from home. The hotel’s Gear Lending Program in partnership with New Balance allows guests to borrow workout gear. The glass walls of the hotel’s fitness studio create an airy feeling and look out toward the indoor heated saltwater pool. For those with time for a bit of pampering, the 6,000-square-foot Soul Spa offers massages, facials, body treatments, nail services, sauna and an outdoor courtyard with a whirlpool.

In the hotel lobby a display case of guitars attracts the attention of patrons. The six instruments are replicas of those used by performers with ties to Mississippi: Muddy Waters, Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Jimmy Buffet, Prince and Marty Stuart. Guests who partake in the hotel’s Music Legends of Mississippi program may borrow an instrument for the evening and play it in their guestroom.

Ready to unwind, Jim and I popped into the Estelle Wine Bar & Bistro. The casual yet sophisticated restaurant with an open kitchen fuses American dishes with a European influence. While debating what to order, we were presented with petite garlic biscuits — a surprisingly delicious accompaniment with wine. Jim and I split a Caesar salad and a wood-fired artisanal pizza. The Westin Jackson invigorates the capital city’s downtown with its enviable upscale accommodations and amenities.

The Westin Jackson

407 S. Congress St.
Jackson, Miss.
tel 601 968 8200