Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Review

Sassagoula Steamboat

Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort is one of Disney's moderate hotels that is located on the banks of the Sassagoula River, offering a 15-minute boat ride to and from Disney Springs. I have spent years walking along the Sassagoula River, I was so excited to go back.

STAYING AT DISNEY'S PORT ORLEANS RIVERSIDE RESORT

Our view of the hotel whilst waiting for the water bus

- THE HOTEL -

Port Orleans is split into two resorts, Riverside and French Quater. Riverside pays homage to romance and tranquillity of the rural Louisiana Bayou, whereas French Quater combines the energy of mardi gras with the charm of New Orleans. I prefer Riverside because of its picturesque surroundings and the calming atmosphere. I also favour the style of buildings and individuality that Riversides offers. The level of theming at this resort is very impressive and is quite a jump from the other resorts that are in the same 'moderate' category. Riverside is also the home to 6 swimming pools, hot tubs, slides and waterfalls and the theming is continued throughout. I will explain this is further detail later on. The main building at the resort is called Sassagouola Steamboat Company. This is where you will find the check-in desk, Fulton's General Store, Boatwrights Dining Hall and finally the Riverside Mill Food Court.

Outside of the food court

- THE ROOM

The guest rooms in each of the major sections of the Port Orleans Resort - Alligator Bayou, Magnolia Bend and Oak Manor all vary in theming and decor, but the room size, layout and amenities are very similar. The room we had booked and stayed in was in Oak Manor, room 9022 and was one of their Royal Guest rooms with a standard view. The theming in this room was very 'Disney' (shocking). It featured portraits of the Disney princesses all around the room with princess Tiana being the main focal point. The faucets in the bathroom are shaped like Aladdin's lamp and even the headboard on the beds light up with fireworks. The theming is second to none. We found the room very comfortable and quiet. Our room included 2 queen size beds, a workspace, a flat-screen TV, his and hers sinks in the bathroom and the option for a shower or a bath. The most important thing for our family was making sure that we had a coffee machine for those 4 am starts. We were not disappointed. It should be noted that these Royal Guest rooms at this resort are limited, so if you are looking for a more well rounded 'Disney' hotel, then I would recommend either Pop Century or Art of Animation.

Our Royal Guest Room

- THE FACILITIES -

Riverside has many eateries and our 'go-to' for as long as I can remember is the Riverside Mill Food Court. Now don't be fooled by the name, unlike most food courts that are hectic and claustrophobic, this food court is spacious and leisurely. We tended to grab breakfast here before a long day at the parks or a late lunch after we had returned from the parks. There are some really good food options served here and the snack choice is overwhelming (in a good way!). As mentioned above, Riverside has plenty of choice when it comes to picking what pool to relax by. Five of the pools are scattered around the resorts and even though you won't find any slides or waterfalls at these pools, they are good for those families who aren't looking for poolside entertainment or those who just want a quick dip. The main pool, Ol' man Island is built over 3.5 acres and was built to represent an old abandoned sawmill. There are wooden contraptions all around the pool spouting out water and a waterslide. Nearby there is also a hot tub and pool bar.

Our pool located by our room

Ol'mans Island's main pool

- TRANSPORTATION -

One of the main advantages about staying in any Disney World hotel are the free Disney buses that will take you to and from all of the 4 Disney parks, Disney Springs plus the water parks. The bus service for Port Orleans includes both Riverside and French Quater. It must be noted that French Quater is the first resort to stop off at for pick ups and drop offs.

As mentioned previously, Riverside is the larger of the resorts and has 4 bus depots; North, East, South and West. All of the bus stops have screens which show you live bus times and updates.

Unfortunately unlike other hotels such as The Yacht and Beach Club and the Contempory Resort, the parks can only be accessed by taking the bus, instead of having the option to walk or catch the skyliner.

But what about Disney Springs? What I love about this resort and one of the main selling points to anyone staying here is the boat service to Disney Springs. The water bus will leave at Riverside stopping at French Quater, Old Key West Hotel and Saratoga Springs Hotel around every 15 minutes. You don't ever have to wait long. If you do happen to have a meal reservation for somewhere in Disney Springs, I would leave at least 45 minutes before to leave yourself plenty of time.

Would I stay here again? Definitely, well I have 3 times, so I guess that already answers the question. We have stayed in other Disney properties on other trips but I always find myself comparing it to this hotel. Our room was comfortable and in a great location for the bus stops and the food court (even if we did have a car park view..).

Port Orleans is classed as a 'moderate resort' which means that it is still affordable but offers more amenities that an a value resort. The price is definitely worth it here without a doubt. The transport links are great and the cast members were extremely helpful with any query we had.

I cant wait to go back!