Walt Disney World has so many beautiful resorts to choose from, whether you are just visiting or staying on site, there is so much to see & explore! I have visited most resort hotels on property. I wish I could say I’ve stayed in them, but I usually stay at value level hotels (which are some of my favourites!). I have dined at some, simply explored others, and Port Orleans French Quarter & Riverside are some of the best on property! Let’s chat about some of my favorite things at this duo resort hotel.
Atmosphere
First of all, we have to talk about the most important thing at any resort – atmosphere! As with any Walt Disney World themed resort, Disney does a great job of honing into the theming & location they are trying to portray. Port Orleans – both French Quarter & Riverside – are no exception!
When you arrive at French Quarter, you immediately feel like you have been whisked away to a quiet, yet booming with personality, New Orleans. The colours of the “houses”, the Mardi Gras statues, and the themed pool, makes it a perfect Mardi Gras getaway.
I love the courtyard area here, where I sat, enjoying my beignets, for almost an hour. Something about it is just so peaceful.
After enjoying French Quarter, you can hop on a boat down the Sassagoula River to Riverside. Alternatively, you can also walk the trail between the two. I enjoy both. I walked the trail over, and took the riverboat back. You can actually also grab a boat to Disney Springs, which is super convenient! Note: The riverboat is not currently operational due to restrictions on site.
As you walk the trail, you switch from that upbeat Mardi Gras feel, to the more extravagant Louisiana, equipped with white pillar homes and weeping willow trees. It is like a whole other world! As you head on down the trail, you’ll come to the main building where you’ll also see a beautiful river wheel. I stayed there for a nice while just soaking in the atmosphere before heading back.
Food
Like with any resort, food is a big part of the reason we visit the resorts! This resort only has one table service restaurant, located at Port Orleans Riverside, called Boatwrights. While I did not dine here, it was one I almost did book a reservation at. Apparently some of the best prime rib on property! Note: This restaurant is currently closed due to ongoing restrictions.
I did, however, dine at the quick service in Port Orleans French Quarter – Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory. I had the rib eye steak & mac n cheese. Hands down, one of the best quick service meals on property in my opinion! I am a bit of a self proclaimed beef snob, and for a quick service meal, this steak was delicious! The mac n cheese was also your classic, down home, delicious mac n cheese.
I am not a fan of spicy food, but I have heard their classic Louisiana dishes, like jambalaya & gumbo are to die for.
Most importantly, let’s not forget the classic New Orleans treat, BEIGNETS!! I can’t even put the deliciousness into words. Just make sure to add them to your list!
Pool
I did not stay at this resort, and pool hopping is not allowed on Disney property, but I did manage to get a quick peek & photo op at the Port Orleans French Quarter resort. The theming is so much fun, for the young & young at heart. I love the fun atmosphere & how the theming keeps with the French Quarter feel!
Rooms
Last but not least, the rooms, of course! Again, I did not stay there, but a friend did, so she showed me around & let me explore the room at Port Orleans French Quarter! As with any resort, there are various types of rooms you can get. Even the standard room like she had, is simply beautiful & cozy!
Overall, easily one of my most favorite resort hotels on property, and definitely underrated!
These two resorts are slated to reopen soon!
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will open for arrivals beginning October 14
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter will open for arrivals beginning October 28
Have you stayed at Port Orleans Riverside or French Quarter? Let us know in the comments or on Facebook or Twitter!
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