Let’s chat about Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort.
In the 23 years my family has been going to Disney World this is our favorite moderate resort. There is something about the quiet, calm charm of this resort that just makes you relax. The resort has two distinct sections that flow nicely together, Magnolia Bend with its majestic looking buildings based on the mansions of the south while Alligator Bayou has cottage style buildings representing the back woods of rural Louisiana.
Both areas are designed with typical Disney magic making you feel like you have stepped into the Louisiana countryside. Magnolia Bend is beautifully decorated with manicured gardens of flowers and shrubs and the white washed buildings with their intricate railings and grand stairways exude southern charm.
Alligator Bayou has two story buildings decorated in greens and browns so they blend in with the abundant greenery.
The resort has plenty of walkways surrounding it that are ideal for an evening stroll. You can even walk along the Sassagoula River to the French Quarter side of the resort. The French Quarter and Riverside both make up the Port Orleans Resort but have their own independent facilities and services giving a completely different feel all their own. Click here for my overview of the French Quarter.
Even the main buildings of the resort combine country with southern charm. The check-in area of the resort with its high ceilings and paddle fans is beautiful.
Opposite the main lobby is Fulton's General Store. This is the store on property that has gifts, sundries, and resort package pick up.
On the river side of the main building hosting check-in is Boatwrights Dining Hall and Riverside Mill Food Court. Boatwrights is the resort's sit down restaurant themed after a boatwright's shop where boats were made. Riverside Mill is a quick service food court in an old grist mill. There is also River Roost Lounge where the famous Yeeha Bob Jackson plays his swinging collection of piano tunes with a bit of comedy on select nights.
One of the things my family enjoys about this resort is the ability to take a water taxi down the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes and is very enjoyable. The boat stops by the French Quarter side of the resort and then passes Saratoga Springs Resort as it makes its way to Disney Springs.
There are plenty of things to keep you busy (or tucker the kids out). Activities include jogging, a playground, volleyball, an arcade, swimming, surrey bike rental and even horse-drawn carriage rides.
There is a main pool located on Ol’ Man Island in the middle of the resort which also hosts the kid’s playground. However, if your idea of relaxing is laying on a lounger reading a book then you will be happy to know that there are also 5 leisure pools located throughout the resort. This is also where you will find the laundry facilities (yeah, I know you’re on vacation but things happen).
Accommodations can sleep from 4 to 6 adults depending on the location in the resort. The most popular rooms are the Royal Guest Rooms located in the Magnolia Bend section. These are decorated with a princess theme and have Princess and the Frog inspired headboards that light up.
If you have a chance, a stay at this resort will definitely ease the stress of everyday life. It also has so much to see and do it's worth a visit during your next trip. When your ready contact me and we will book your stay.