Disney's Port Orleans Resort

For my money, the best value in Disney is the Port Orleans resorts. This resort is actually two resorts in one, the Riverside and the French Quarter. While it is considered a moderate resort, Port Orleans has a charm that rivals Disney’s more expensive resorts.

My favorite is Port Orleans Riverside. This resort is designed with the old world charm of rural Louisiana in mind. In my opinion, this is the most romantic of the Disney resorts. The walkways along the river give the illusion of quiet and solitude, which is astounding among the hustle and bustle of Disney. Don’t get me wrong, this is a Disney resort and it is designed for families. There is a food court, the Riverside Mill, and a Cajun restaurant, Boatright’s Dining Hall. There is a cool swimming pool that never seems overcrowded. There are also all of the extras you have come to expect from Disney, like boat rentals, and there is even an ol’ fishin’ hole.

If you feel the need to visit the French Quarter, (“Beignets, anyone?”), then it is only a short walk along the riverside.
For those preferring to stay somewhere a little more upbeat, the French Quarter is for you. Inspired by the French Quarter in New Orleans, this resort is just fun. From the smooth jazz playing to the Mardi Gras inspired decorations, the French Quarter is everything you would expect from Disney.

The French Quarter has all of the amenities you would expect. The pool, Doubloon Lagoon, is particularly striking with a Sea Serpent slide. The Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory food court has many Cajun-inspired dishes, did I mention beignets (!), and some more traditional choices as well. For the adults, the Scat Cat’s club is a great place to listen to some jazz, have a drink, and relax.

Both of the Port Orleans resorts have access to the Disney Transportation system, of course. There is also a leisurely boat ride available that runs between the resorts, and on to Downtown Disney. This is my preferred method, as it is relaxing and does not take much longer. You never know what wildlife you might see!

So whether you are looking for the relaxed pace of Riverside, or the pageantry of the French Quarter, Port Orleans has a little something for everyone.