Yea its much calmer that way. Plus if your planning on breastfeeding that's a perfect time to do so. Also depends on the labor after doctors and nurses might be checking on you so you might not feel comfortable having visitors in the room with you. Take the time to rest relax and fall more in love with your baby.
Sounds good. You can catch up on your sleep. (lol -- just kidding!)
I think a lot depends on the labor. After 27 hours, I was pretty tired but still very high, and the baby was super tired. He ate and then slept, and my husband and I sat there looking at him. My sister came in, but she is an old pro at maternity and was pretty quiet.