Experience the charm and allure of rural Louisiana as you explore the magnificent white-column mansions of Magnolia Bend and the quaint backwoods cottages of Alligator Bayou at Port Orleans Riverside. A leisurely stroll along the Sassagoula River will lead you to Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter, where you can savor authentic Southern fares such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. This idyllic destination offers a warm, friendly atmosphere and endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, from swimming and fishing to simply unwinding and taking in the tranquil bayou lifestyle. Come and discover the magic of Southern hospitality at its finest.

Last September, my mom and I celebrated my birthday at Disney World and when deciding on hotel rooms, we decided to splurge and stay at a Moderate Disney hotel, ultimately choosing Port Orleans Riverside due to its renowned Royal Guest Room.

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO STAY IN THE ROYAL GUEST ROOM OR PRINCESS ROOM AT DISNEY WORLD

This room exudes royalty and is sure to impress every member of your family. It is adorned with memorabilia from Princess Tiana and her companions, making your stay truly special. When I first heard about this room, I was immediately drawn to it. As someone who loves Princess Tiana and New Orleans, the fact that it was located at Port Orleans Riverside sealed the deal for me! From the moment I stepped into the room until the end of our 7-day trip, I was enamored with it. It seemed to get better with each passing day, which I didn't think was possible. The little details, such as the faucet resembling a genie lamp and the beautiful princess photos on the walls, made the stay even more magical. The headboards even lit up to create a stunning firework display! We visited in early September when Disney World is less crowded due to school being back in session and Labor Day having already passed. This is a great time to visit, especially because we were able to book this room for under $300 per night at a moderate Disney World Resort. Normally, these rooms go for $350-$400 per night, but we were able to take advantage of some summer sales and timing to get it for $250 per night. I highly recommend this time of year for a visit!

THE MOST MAGICAL DETAILS

Once you lay your eyes on these stunning headboards, you'll instantly fall in love. I had the pleasure of staying in this room with my mom to celebrate my birthday, and every night, we eagerly pressed the button to witness the breathtaking fireworks display over the bayou. I only wish this resort was classified as a Deluxe resort, as it was truly exceptional and Disney World's Deluxe Resorts offer Extended Evening Hours, which is a fantastic perk. However, in terms of Moderate Disney Resorts, Port Orleans Riverside is undoubtedly at the pinnacle.

WHAT DINING OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE HOTEL?

RIVERSIDE MILL FOOD COURT

Settle down for American fare inspired by Southern Louisiana-style cookin’ on the bayou. This family-friendly food court sits right next to the big mill wheel that powers a working cotton press. Five stations satisfy any craving: bakery, grill, pizza & pasta, specialties, and sandwiches. My mom and I loved that the food court at Port Orleans Riverside was more on theme than the other value resorts because they featured New Orleans-style cuisine too. Typically, at the Value resorts, you get generic food which is great — such as the Honey Barbecued Pork Sandwich with a Zesty Vegetable Slaw on a Toasted Brioche Bun served with French Fries — but there isn’t anything on theme to where you’re staying like there are for the Moderate and Deluxe Disney World Resorts. Grab ’n’ go items are available and should absolutely be taken advantage of! Every time I stay at a Disney World Resort, I order Mickey Waffles to be picked up from my app via Mobile Order. I mean… breakfast in bed or while getting ready for the day is a must — especially when Mickey Mouse-shaped foods are involved.

BOATWRIGHT'S DINING HALL

Are you in search of some Southern hospitality in a relaxed and innovative atmosphere that overlooks the Sassagoula River? Look no further! The Taste of the Bayou All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Platter will tantalize your taste buds with lip-smacking favorites like hickory-smoked ribs, crispy Cajun chicken, smoked sausage, beef brisket, corn, mashed potatoes, green beans, and mac and cheese. Keep the good times rolling with the blackened prime rib, low country seafood boil, or both. And for dessert, indulge in the sweet magic of the famous Mississippi Mud Crème Brûlée.

RIVER ROOST

Indulge in the delightful experience of enjoying Southern-style beverages, such as the Southern Hurricane, at this charming old-fashioned watering hole. The place features a full bar and serves light snacks when the kitchen is open. Relish the flavors of Spinach and Artichoke Dip, a unique Blood Orange Margarita, and beers from New Orleans. Live music adds to the already enjoyable ambiance, making it an excellent place to have a great time.

MUDDY RIVERS

Make sure to savor every sip and enjoy the great atmosphere at the poolside bar located on the beautifully wooded Ol' Man Island. Have a blast with a variety of specialty drinks, including frozen and on the rocks options, draft beer, wine, superfruit sangria, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages. You'll also find a selection of small plates, such as a tasty chicken salad sandwich, a flavorful Caesar salad with grilled chicken, a classic ham and cheese sandwich, and a mouth-watering pretzel served with delicious cheese sauce.

WHAT HOTEL AMENITIES ARE THERE AT PORT ORLEANS RIVERSIDE?

DISNEY WATER TRANSPORTATION

One of the great benefits of choosing Port Orleans Riverside as our accommodation was the availability of water transportation to and from Disney Springs. The trip takes approximately 10 minutes from the resort to Disney Springs. However, the boat only departs once it is relatively full, which may result in a waiting period of about 20 minutes. This is similar to the waiting time for Disney buses, so it's all about choosing your battles! Enjoy the picturesque views and unwind with refreshing breezes as you glide across Lake. Experience the enchantment of the journey with the wind blowing through your hair and the magic surrounding you.

HORSE-DRAWN EXCURSION

Enjoy the serene rustic scenery as you embark on a delightful journey through quaint pathways aboard a horse-drawn carriage. You can hop on board at the Riverside Levee Marina located at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside for a 25-minute ride. The carriages can accommodate up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 3 small children. The cost for each ride is $55.

POOLS

Splash about on your way to Ol’ Man Island or relax with a far more tranquil dip in one of 5 leisure pools. Have a good ol’ time at Ol’ Man Island, a 3.5-acre refuge with a swimmin’ hole and a fishin’ hole. Fashioned after an abandoned sawmill, this pool is accessible by 3 wooden bridges and includes a 95-foot-long rustic waterslide built into the millwork. Five leisure pools—3 in Alligator Bayou and 2 in Magnolia Bend—are available throughout the Resort. Offering a more relaxing respite, these pools are perfect for Guests looking to lounge the day away.

CAMPFIRE ON DE' BAYOU

Gather ‘round as the sun goes down for old-fashioned family fun as you roast marshmallows by a crackling fire. Located on Ol' Man Island by the playground 6-7pm - 7 days a week. I love that Disney Resorts have fun little activities such as these. I mean who doesn’t love a good campfire right?

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

Come for the Campfire – Stay for a Movie! Cozy up for complimentary outdoor screenings of popular Disney films immediately following the campfire fun! On select nights, enjoy a Disney movie at the Magnolia South Pool deck. Movies Under the Stars is a great option for those not wanting to spend all day at the parks or for those spending a good chunk of time at Disney World and wanting something a little different to do in the evening.

COMPLIMENTARY BUS TRANSPORTATION

Complimentary bus transportation to and from all Disney theme parks and water parks is available for all guests staying at Disney Resort Hotels. Buses also run to the Disney Springs area and Disney′s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course. The main bus stop at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside is located in front of the Colonel’s Cotton Mill building. Then additional stops shuttle guests between the different areas of the property.

BEIGNETS AT PORT ORLEANS FRENCH QUARTER

I've been to Disney World four times before my stay at Port Orleans Riverside and had always heard about the famous Mickey Beignets and how delicious they were. Unfortunately, when my husband and I tried to take a bus from Disney Springs to Port Orleans French Quarter, we were delayed and couldn't make it. I thought I would never get to try this treat, but finally, I did. And let me tell you, they were absolutely amazing! I highly recommend getting the caramel sauce to dip them in too. You can find these mouthwatering delights at Scat Cat's Club Café, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from Port Orleans Riverside to Port Orleans French Quarter.

Our experience at Port Orleans Riverside was excellent! The property is stunning and perfect for a leisurely walk, dining, unwinding by the pool, or simply enjoying the accommodations. We definitely plan on returning!

XOXO

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