Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is a Moderate Resort at Walt Disney World that blends Southern charm with rustic beauty. With its Mississippi River-inspired setting and Old South theming, Port Orleans Riverside offers guests a tranquil escape while still providing easy access to the Disney parks. Known for its sprawling grounds, impressive theming, and variety of room options, including the popular Royal Guest Rooms, it’s a favourite among families, couples, and those seeking a more laid-back Disney stay. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of staying at this beautiful resort.
Key Highlights of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
1. Southern Charm and Theming
Port Orleans Riverside is divided into two distinct sections: Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend. Each section has its own unique charm and design, providing different atmospheres depending on the kind of stay you’re looking for.
- Alligator Bayou: This area features rustic, lodge-like buildings nestled among lush greenery, offering a more rugged and natural feel. It’s ideal for guests seeking a laid-back, outdoorsy atmosphere.
- Magnolia Bend: In contrast, the Magnolia Bend section is made up of grand Southern mansions, giving the area an elegant, stately feel with beautiful gardens and tree-lined pathways. This section also houses the Royal Guest Rooms, which are perfect for fans of Disney princesses and feature special touches like fibre-optic headboards and themed decor.
Key Tip: For families with young children, the Royal Guest Rooms are a big hit, as they are filled with fun Disney details and princess-inspired decor. Meanwhile, Alligator Bayou offers rooms that can accommodate up to five guests, making it a great choice for larger families.
2. Serene and Scenic Grounds
Port Orleans Riverside is renowned for its peaceful, expansive grounds. The resort is set along the banks of the Sassagoula River, and its sprawling layout means that guests can enjoy scenic walks along the riverbank, across wooden bridges, and through lush landscapes.
- Riverfront Views: Walking along the Sassagoula River, you’ll encounter plenty of quiet spots for relaxation, as well as beautiful views of the water and surrounding greenery.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: A unique feature of Riverside is the option to take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the riverbanks, adding to the resort’s charm and offering a romantic or family-friendly activity.
Key Tip: The large size of the resort means that rooms can be quite spread out from the main lobby and dining areas, so be sure to request a room closer to Ol’ Man Island or the Sassagoula Steamboat Company if you want to minimise walking distances.
3. Ol’ Man Island – Fun for All Ages
The resort’s main pool area, Ol’ Man Island, is a 3.5-acre area that offers plenty of fun and relaxation for both adults and kids.
- Main Pool with a Waterslide: The large pool is themed after an old-fashioned swimming hole, complete with a waterslide that winds through a rustic mill. It’s a great place for families to cool off after a long day in the parks.
- Quiet Pools: For those seeking a more relaxing swim, there are several quiet pools located throughout the resort in both the Magnolia Bend and Alligator Bayou sections, offering a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Fishing and Playgrounds: In addition to the pools, Ol’ Man Island features a playground, a fishing hole, and plenty of space for kids to run around and play.
Key Tip: The main pool area can get busy during the afternoons, so if you’re looking for a more peaceful swim, head to one of the quiet pools, especially early in the morning or in the evening.
4. Great Dining Options
Port Orleans Riverside offers a variety of dining options, from quick-service to table-service meals, all with a Southern-inspired twist.
- Boatwright’s Dining Hall: This table-service restaurant offers Southern cuisine with favourites like jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and fried catfish. The atmosphere is casual and rustic, with decor inspired by a shipyard, making it a great spot for a hearty meal.
- Riverside Mill Food Court: For quick-service meals, the Riverside Mill Food Court is a spacious dining area offering a wide selection of food, including pizza, burgers, pasta, and salads. The food court’s water wheel adds to the theming and charm of the area.
- River Roost Lounge: Riverside’s lounge, known for its live entertainment featuring Yehaa Bob Jackson, is a great place to grab a drink and enjoy some upbeat piano music and sing-alongs.
Key Tip: Be sure to check out Yehaa Bob’s show at the River Roost Lounge—it’s a Disney fan-favourite, and his performances are entertaining for both adults and children.
5. Recreation and Entertainment
There’s plenty to do at Port Orleans Riverside beyond swimming and dining. The resort offers several recreational activities that enhance the overall experience.
- Bike Rentals: Guests can rent bicycles or surrey bikes to explore the resort’s extensive grounds, including the nearby Port Orleans French Quarter.
- Fishing: Guests can also try their hand at catch-and-release fishing at Ol’ Man Island, offering a relaxing and fun activity for families.
- Campfires and Movies Under the Stars: The resort offers evening campfires and outdoor movie screenings, which are great ways to wind down after a day at the parks.
Key Tip: For those looking to explore more of the resort, consider renting bikes or taking a boat ride to Port Orleans French Quarter for even more dining and entertainment options.
Downsides of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
1. Large Size
While the expansive grounds of Riverside offer beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, the sheer size of the resort can be overwhelming for some guests. Depending on where your room is located, it can be a long walk to the main lobby, dining areas, or bus stops.
Key Tip: If walking distances are a concern, request a room closer to the main buildings or bus stops. Preferred rooms in Magnolia Bend and Alligator Bayou offer more convenient access.
2. Bus-Only Transportation
Unlike other Moderate Resorts like Caribbean Beach, which has Skyliner access, Port Orleans Riverside relies solely on bus transportation to get guests to and from the parks. While the bus system is generally efficient, it can sometimes feel less convenient compared to other transportation options like the Skyliner or monorail.
Key Tip: If you’re planning on using the buses, try to catch them early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak crowd times. The resort also shares buses with Port Orleans French Quarter, which can add to travel time during busier periods.
3. Theming May Not Appeal to Everyone
While the Southern charm and peaceful atmosphere of Riverside are big selling points for many guests, some may find the theming to be less exciting compared to the more immersive, heavily themed resorts like Art of Animation or Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Key Tip: If you’re looking for a more whimsical or highly immersive experience, consider exploring other Disney resorts that offer stronger theming and more character-driven decor.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Worth It?
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a wonderful balance of elegance, charm, and affordability in the Moderate Resort category. With its beautiful Southern theming, scenic riverside setting, and variety of recreational activities, it’s a fantastic choice for families, couples, and anyone looking for a quieter, more relaxed Disney experience. The Royal Guest Rooms add a fun touch of Disney magic, making them perfect for princess-loving children or those wanting a bit of extra magic during their stay.
Though the resort’s size and reliance on bus transportation may not appeal to everyone, the combination of tranquility, great dining, and entertainment options makes Port Orleans Riverside a must-consider option for those seeking a Moderate Resort experience with a lot of heart.
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