Craving some old-fashioned New Orleans inspired Beignets? Then, you have to visit the Scat Cat’s Club at the Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter in Walt Disney World. This resort is themed after the ever-popular Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans and has 1008 rooms in seven buildings as well as a central location housing the check-in/out area, the restaurant, bus stop and gift shop. This resort appeals to many because it is not as spread out as other moderates and has one central bus stop (keep in mind the bus is shared with the four stops at the Port Orleans – Riverside).
The buildings are brightly colored with different styles of shutters and doors and black wrought iron railings. Most of the rooms face the courtyard walkways and there is elevator access in the buildings.
Port Orleans – French Quarter is a very laid back, relaxed resort but does have many things to keep you occupied. Sitting on the banks of the Sassagoula River offers the ability to take a ferry ride to Disney Springs. The river ferries run approximately every 20 minutes and also stop at the sister resort, Port Orleans – Riverside, and then continue on to Disney Springs. There are walking paths that connect the two resorts that allow for a very leisurely night stroll on the lamp lit paths.
Doubloon Lagoon is the only pool at the resort and has a 51-foot sea serpent water slide. There is also a large kids splash pad and a hot tub. The theming keeps with the Mardi Gras feel with playful alligators decorating the pool area. Mardi Grogs bar is located at the pool complex and offers drinks, soda and a small food menu.
Of course, if swimming isn’t your thing there is also an arcade, surrey bike rentals, jogging paths, a playground and movies under the stars. Port Orleans – French Quarter shares horse drawn buggy rides with Port Orleans – Riverside. They usually pick you up outside the main building at Riverside and take you on a stroll around the two resorts. There is a separate fee for this (the rides are not running right now due to COVID).
What type of room will you have? There are four different room categories – standard, garden, pool and riverfront. A majority of the rooms have two double beds and sleep up to four adults but there are some king rooms that sleep two adults. All the rooms open up onto an outdoor walkway.
Starving? The main dining area is the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory which is a quick service location. You can also order from Sassagoula Pizza Express which will deliver pizza to your room or go to Scat Cat’s Club lounge which is open in the evenings (the only place on property to find those delicious beignets). There are limited options at this resort but you can walk over to Port Orleans – Riverside and use their restaurant facilities also.
Fun note – Disney usually does some fun things at this resort on Mardi Gras day. Events may include a decorated float parade from Riverside to the French Quarter. The floats are decorated by the cast members according to theme for the year, music and bead tossing. The evenings usually host a festive party with a DJ, dancing, snacks, and activities. Of course, all events are subject to change.
So next time the urge for Mardi Gras grabs you, contact me and we will get you to the party!