Port Orleans Riverside Disney Resort: Everything You Should Know

Are you interested in staying at the Port Orleans Riverside Disney resort? The Port Orleans Riverside Disney Resort is a scenic resort in the Disney family of hotels. It offers a picturesque and immersive vacation experience for families and couples alike. My family and I recently stayed at the beautiful Port Orleans Riverside Disney Resort and I’m excited to share our review.

Set along the banks of the beautiful Sassagoula River, the resort’s design transports its guests to the romantic era of the deep South. Steeped in lush landscapes and charming architecture, Port Orleans Riverside stands out as a popular choice among those seeking a modicum of luxury within Walt Disney World without shattering their budgets.

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The resort is conveniently located in the Disney Springs Resort Area, making it a prime spot for enjoying world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment. Its diverse accommodations cater to various traveler preferences, ranging from spacious and comfortable to extra-lavish options.

Guests can enjoy an array of amenities and services, with royal guest room options for those who like Disney princesses and standard rooms, from delightful dining spots to fun recreation facilities, ensuring a memorable stay. It is also conveniently located near the Port Orleans French Quarter, another popular moderate Disney resort hotel. 

Key Takeaways

• Port Orleans Riverside offers an immersive and picturesque vacation experience in the Disney Springs Resort Area
• The resort features a variety of accommodations, amenities, and services to cater to diverse traveler preferences
• Guests appreciate the superb location, charming atmosphere, and abundant recreational options available at the resort.

Location and Overview

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is a moderate-level hotel located at 1251 Riverside Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-8514. Nestled in the heart of Walt Disney World, this resort offers a charming atmosphere inspired by the romance of the rural Louisiana Bayou.

The resort is situated within the Disney Springs Resort Area, making it convenient for guests who want to explore the dining, shopping, and entertainment options available nearby. With lush landscaping and Southern charm, Port Orleans Riverside provides a picturesque setting for families visiting Walt Disney World.

At Port Orleans Riverside, guests can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. The resort’s amenities include a stocked fishing hole, a country-style pool, and lively entertainment, such as the popular YeHaa Bob, who performs most Wednesday through Saturday nights. The resort also offers boat transportation to Disney Springs, allowing guests to experience the area’s attractions with ease.

In addition to its appealing location and welcoming environment, Port Orleans Riverside features sprawling grounds with flowered fields and two-story cottages that add to the nostalgic ambiance of the resort. The hotel’s reasonably priced accommodation and extensive room count make it an attractive option for many families planning their Walt Disney World vacations.

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Accommodations and Views

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort offers various types of accommodations with different views to suit guests’ preferences. The resort’s design is influenced by the charm and romance of rural Louisiana, with distinct areas such as the Royal Guest Rooms, Alligator Bayou, and Magnolia Bend.

Royal Guest Rooms

The Royal Guest Rooms provide an upscale experience with unique decor inspired by Disney’s royal characters. These rooms feature either a standard view or a picturesque river view, and come with two queen beds or one king bed to accommodate various party sizes. Some of these rooms can accommodate a 5th sleeper by providing a fold-down bed.

Alligator Bayou

Nestled among natural landscapes, the Alligator Bayou section bursts with rustic charm in its quaint backwoods cottages. Guests can choose from garden view or river view accommodations, with most rooms offering two queen beds or one king bed. Alligator Bayou also caters to larger groups by featuring some rooms with an additional fold-down bed for a 5th sleeper.

Magnolia Bend

Inspired by the stately mansions of the South, Magnolia Bend offers spacious accommodations in a serene setting. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of the resort’s immaculately-manicured grounds, with room options including standard, garden, river, or pool views. These rooms are furnished with two queen beds or one king bed to comfortably accommodate various guest configurations.

Throughout Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort, visitors can expect a confident and knowledgeable stay, with a variety of room types and views catered to their preferences.

Amenities and Services

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers various amenities and services to make the most of your Disney vacation. This section will discuss the available recreation and activities, transportation options, and pet care and policies.

Recreation and Activities

Guests can enjoy different activities and recreation options at the resort. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside features a playground, where children can have a fun time playing and making new friends. The resort also offers a poolside bar for guests to unwind after a long day at the parks. For convenience, the hotel provides laundry service and dry cleaning.

Additionally, guests can make use of the hotel’s free WiFi and in-room amenities such as air conditioning, phone, and safe to ensure a comfortable stay. The My Disney Experience app and Disney Genie services are available to enhance your visit.

Transportation Options

Transportation options at the resort are easy and convenient. Guests can take a leisurely cruise to Disney Springs on a complimentary water taxi. Moreover, complimentary bus transportation is available for guests to travel to and from all Disney theme parks and water parks. The resort area is part of the Disney Springs Resort Area, offering proximity to various attractions and amenities.

For those arriving via the airport, the hotel does not provide an airport shuttle service but recommends the use of motorcoach transportation or other available services. Onsite parking is available for guests.

Pet Care and Policies

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is committed to accommodating and caring for pets during their stay. The resort offers dog-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable space for your furry family members. For pet care services, guests can access the nearby Best Friends Pet Care facility, which provides all the necessary care and comfort for pets while owners explore the parks.

Check-in and Check-out

Guests can check in at the front desk of the resort starting at 3:00 pm, while check-out time is 11:00 am. For a smooth arrival and departure experience, the hotel offers an ATM and convenient services like Mobile Order and Disney MagicMobile, along with their commendable TripAdvisor Traveler rating.

Dining Options

Riverside Mill Food Court

At Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, guests can enjoy various dining options. One of them is the Riverside Mill Food Court. Here, you can find a variety of Southern comfort food options. Located near a big mill wheel, this food court offers five scrumptious stations to satisfy your soul-food cravings. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes such as Mickey-shaped Waffles and Vanilla Pancakes.

River Roost Lounge

For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the River Roost Lounge is an excellent choice. This bar service option offers a comfortable environment to unwind after a day at the theme parks. The lounge is part of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and offers a wide selection of beverages to enjoy.

Boatwright’s Dining Hall

Boatwright’s Dining Hall is a table-service restaurant located at the resort. Known for its Southern specialties, this dining location offers a unique culinary experience for guests to enjoy. While reservations are not mentioned explicitly, it’s always good to plan ahead to avoid any disappointment. To make dining reservations, you can book online or call (407) 939-5277.

In addition to the dining options mentioned above, guests can also enjoy refreshing beverages at the Muddy Rivers Pool Bar, located near the resort’s swimming pool. The combination of various dining options, exclusive lounge services, and poolside bars makes the Port Orleans Riverside Disney Resort an ideal location for guests seeking diverse gastronomic experiences.

Recreation and Fun

Ol’ Man Island

At the heart of Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort lies Ol’ Man Island, a recreation area designed to whisk guests away to the rustic charm of rural Louisiana. The main attraction is a picturesque swimming pool, complete with waterfalls and a twisting waterslide, offering fun and relaxation for the entire family. Surrounded by lush greenery, this paradise is also home to a hot tub and a children’s playground, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

Fishing and Watercraft

For guests looking to enjoy the resort’s waterways, the resort offers a variety of engaging activities. Located at the Fishing Hole, visitors can participate in catch-and-release fishing, providing a serene and immersive experience for anglers of all skill levels. Additionally, watercraft rentals are available for those seeking a more active adventure. Guests can choose from options such as kayaks, canoes, and various motorized boats to explore the picturesque, and winding rivers.

Bike Rentals

For those who prefer land-based activities, Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort also offers bike rentals. Guests can rent single or multi-passenger bicycles to cruise around the beautiful, well-maintained grounds. Biking offers a unique way to explore the lovely Alligator Bayou or majestic white-columned mansions of Magnolia Bend, truly transporting visitors to the romantic, rural charm of Louisiana.

Medicine Show Arcade

A trip to the resort would not be complete without a visit to the Medicine Show Arcade. Located within the resort’s main building, this exciting gaming facility offers a broad range of video and pinball machines that cater to all ages and tastes. The arcade is perfect for families seeking a break from the sun or those looking for some friendly competition.

Theme Park Access

At Port Orleans Riverside Disney Resort, guests can easily access various Disney theme parks and entertainment destinations, including Disney Springs. One convenient mode of transportation within the resort area is the complimentary bus service. This service connects guests to key attractions within Walt Disney World, ensuring a hassle-free experience during their stay.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is well-connected to major theme parks such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The buses operate frequently throughout the day, providing seamless transportation for guests. Additionally, the bus service is equipped to accommodate guests with disabilities, making it an accessible option for everyone.

Disney Springs, a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, is also easily reachable through the resort’s bus service and a quick boat ride. Guests can explore a variety of unique boutiques, world-class dining options, and entertainment venues at Disney Springs, all within a short ride from the Port Orleans Riverside Disney Resort.

How Often Do Boats Come To Port Orleans Riverside? 

During our stay at the Port Orleans Riverside, we took the ferry boat to Disney Springs a couple of times. Cast members told us to expect the ferry boat to arrive every 20 minutes. However, we noticed the boat would arrive even sooner at times. 

Hotels close to Disney Port Orleans Riverside Resort

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort is located close to its sister resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. These two moderate resorts at Walt Disney World are nestled along the banks of the picturesque Sassagoula River, offering guests a serene and immersive experience. Both resorts are inspired by the charm and romance of New Orleans, with French Quarter being more reminiscent of the historic downtown district.

The proximity of Port Orleans Riverside to the French Quarter means that guests can easily enjoy the amenities and recreational activities offered by both resorts. A leisurely stroll between the resorts can be an enjoyable experience in itself, as the well-maintained grounds are filled with lush greenery and scenic water views. Alternatively, guests can take advantage of the complimentary riverboat transportation along the Sassagoula River to travel between the two properties, adding an extra layer of charm to the experience.

While each resort has its own unique qualities and design, the shared ambiance and theming provide a seamless transition between the two properties. Guests at both Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter can benefit from the wide range of dining options, shopping venues, and recreational facilities available within the combined resort area.

What Guests Love about Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is a popular moderate resort which offers an inviting ambiance and a range of amenities that guests appreciate.

One of the aspects that fans of Port Orleans Riverside love is its charming theme, reminiscent of the Old South and the beauty of Louisiana. The resort’s well-manicured grounds and thoughtfully designed buildings transport guests to a serene, idyllic setting, making it a great getaway from the bustling theme parks.

Visitors with children will enjoy the resort’s main pool, which features a water slide and a themed pool area. In addition, the resort provides recreational activities and entertainment such as playgrounds, evening campfires, and horse-drawn carriage rides, offering a variety of options to keep kids entertained and parents at ease.

Many guests appreciate the Alligator Bayou section of the resort which offers rooms with a unique “5th sleeper” option. These rooms come with two queen beds and a fold-down twin bed, providing extra sleeping space for families or larger groups.

Guests seeking a quiet retreat will find solace in the resort’s lush gardens, meandering pathways, and waterfront views. Port Orleans Riverside provides ample opportunities to escape from the usual hustle and bustle, to simply relax and unwind near the peaceful Sassagoula River.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside strikes a balance between a moderate price point and an enjoyable experience. The combination of attractive theming, a wide array of amenities, and a tranquil setting, appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring a memorable stay for all.

What Guests Dislike

At Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort, some guests have expressed concerns or negative experiences during their stay. While the resort is loved by many for its charming theme and relaxed atmosphere, there are a few aspects that some guests might find less than ideal.

One concern is the lack of an in-room iron. For guests who wish to maintain a polished appearance during their stay, the absence of an iron in the room can be an inconvenience. Those who require ironing facilities may need to make special arrangements or consider alternative options to keep their attire crisp and wrinkle-free.

Some guests have mentioned that the size of the resort can be overwhelming. The sprawling property can make it challenging for guests to navigate and may result in longer walks to reach dining, shopping, and transportation options. Visitors with mobility issues or small children may find this to be a concern. However, others might appreciate the opportunity for scenic strolls around the resort’s picturesque views.

Our Review of the Riverside Port Orleans Riverside

Our family overall loved our stay at the Riverside Port Orleans Riverside. We also took the ferry boat over to the French Quarters and realized we preferred the amenities and grand decor of the Port Orleans Riverside over the French Quarters. The French Quarters is painted quite beautifully, but the food court and liveliness of the Riverside resort won us over.

We found it easy to navigate around the resort and find our way to Disney Springs.

We stayed in the Royal Guest Rooms and found the decor quite cute. However, we did not love how the dark mood and colors in the Royal Guest rooms made the room feel darker. It would be nice if there were more lighting in the rooms.

We were able to easily fit into the room as a family of 4 and loved the features such as the refrigerator and additional curtain to close off the bathroom area. This adds an additional living space to the room where someone could get a little privacy.

We ate at the both the Riverside Mill Food Court and the Boatwright’s Dining Hall restaurant during our week at the resort. We liked the breakfast and dinner options a lot, but did not love the Boatwright’s Dining Hall as much as we’d hoped.

In conclusion, we would give the Port Orleans Riverside Resort an 8/10.

In addition, some guests have raised concerns about the noise levels in the rooms. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of entertainment options, the resort can be a bustling hub of activity. As a result, some guests have reported that the noise from neighboring rooms or outdoor activities can sometimes be disturbing, particularly for light sleepers or those in need of a quiet retreat.

It is essential to consider these potential drawbacks when planning a stay at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort. In doing so, guests can ensure they make an informed decision in choosing their ideal accommodation for their Walt Disney World vacation.