Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Nestled along the picturesque Sassagoula River, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside resort transports guests to the enchanting world of the antebellum South, where stately mansions and rustic bayou cottages create a perfect blend of elegance and casual comfort. Riverside is one of the all-time favorite Walt Disney World moderate resorts. Together with its sister Walt Disney World resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, it forms a grand celebration of Louisiana culture and history. Riverside and French Quarter were originally opened as separate resorts (Port Orleans and Dixie Landings) but were combined under the Port Orleans name in 2001. While French Quarter captures the romantic energy of New Orleans’ historic district with its wrought-iron balconies and gaslit cobblestone streets, Riverside offers a more pastoral experience that captures the romance and charm of rural Louisiana while providing the magical touches Disney is famous for.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Summary

• Located along the Sassagoula River and paired with sister resort Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, this moderate Disney resort captures the charm of Louisiana with its antebellum mansion and rustic bayou cottage accommodations.
• The resort features two distinct areas: Magnolia Bend with its grand columns and stately Southern mansion architecture, and Alligator Bayou with more rustic, backwoods theming and natural landscaping.
• Dining options include the Riverside Mill Food Court (themed as a working cotton mill), Boatwright’s Dining Hall (table service), the River Roost Lounge (featuring “Ye Haa” Bob Jackson’s entertainment), and access to French Quarter’s famous beignets.
• Recreation centers around the Ol’ Man Island swimming complex with its 95-foot water slide, plus five quiet pools, bike rentals, fishing, an arcade, and a scenic 1-mile jogging trail connecting to French Quarter. It is a short walk and worth the extra time.
• Transportation includes bus service to all Disney parks and a picturesque 20-minute boat ride along the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs, departing from docks at both Riverside and French Quarter approximately every 20 minutes.
• Unique accommodation options include Royal Guest Rooms featuring princess-themed decor and special touches like fiber-optic firework headboards, alongside standard rooms that sleep up to four adults.

Location and Transportation

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort and its sister resort, French Quarter, are situated in the Disney Springs area, making them conveniently located for both park access and evening entertainment. Due to Riverside’s expansive layout, the resort features a well-planned bus transportation system with four strategic stops. The main bus stop (Stop 1) is conveniently located in front of the Sassagoula Steamboat Company main building near the front desk and Fulton’s General Store. Additional stops include the West Depot (Stop 2) serving Alligator Bayou buildings 14-16 and 27, the North Depot (Stop 3) serving Alligator Bayou buildings 24-26 and Magnolia Bend buildings 90 and 95, and the South Depot (Stop 4) serving Magnolia Bend buildings 80 and 85.

All Disney theme park and Disney Springs buses follow this numbered sequence, stopping at all four locations before departing the resort. This systematic approach ensures convenient access for guests regardless of their room location. An internal resort shuttle also operates between Riverside and French Quarter, following the same stop pattern at Riverside before continuing to French Quarter. Disney’s Port Orleans Riverisde offers bus service to all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks and Disney Springs.

A highlight of staying at either Port Orleans resort is the complimentary water taxi service – known as the Sassagoula River Cruise, complete with a story telling cast member captain. These charming boats transport guests along the scenic Sassagoula River directly to Disney Springs. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Louisiana-style landscaping, other Disney resorts, and natural wildlife along the way. Boats typically run every 20 minutes from both resorts’ docks, starting around 10:00 AM until Disney Springs’ closing (usually 11:00 PM or midnight, depending on the season). Please note, you cannot walk to Disney Springs from either Port Orleans Resorts.

Riverside’s main boat dock is located behind the main building near Boatwright’s Dining Hall, while French Quarter’s dock sits behind their main building. The boats are covered for sun and rain protection, and each vessel can accommodate wheelchairs and ECVs. Many guests find this relaxing boat ride to be an attraction in itself, offering a peaceful alternative to bus transportation and a unique perspective of Walt Disney World’s waterways.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Layout and Themes

The resort’s main building, known as the Sassagoula Steamboat Company, houses the resort’s main lobby and serves as its central hub. This grand building features a soaring ceiling with gleaming chandeliers, rich wood accents, and elegant Victorian-style furnishings that set the tone for the resort’s Southern theme. The lobby building contains the front desk, concierge services, Fulton’s General Store, and provides direct access to both the Riverside Mill Food Court and Boatwright’s Dining Hall. Just outside, you’ll find the main bus stop and a short pathway leading to the resort’s boat dock.

The resort is divided into two distinct sections, each with its own architectural style and atmosphere:

Magnolia Bend

The mansion buildings in Magnolia Bend showcase the grandeur of antebellum architecture, with their white columns, sweeping staircases, and manicured gardens. These stately buildings house rooms that reflect the refined elegance of Southern plantation homes, featuring sophisticated décor and regal touches.

Alligator Bayou

In contrast, the Alligator Bayou section offers a more rustic experience, with buildings designed to resemble backwoods cottages. The Alligator Bayou rooms feature rough-hewn timber, metal lanterns, and a more casual, country atmosphere. The landscape here is more natural and wooded, creating an immersive bayou setting.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Accommodations

Port Orleans Riverside offers 2,048 rooms across its various buildings, with several room categories to choose from. The standard rooms, measuring approximately 314 square feet, come equipped with either two queen beds or one king bed. Many rooms in the Alligator Bayou section feature an additional pull-down Murphy bed (approximately twin-size) that can accommodate a fifth guest, making these rooms particularly valuable for families of five. The Murphy bed tucks away neatly during the day and features charming artwork of Goofy when folded down.

Each room includes essential amenities such as a mini-fridge, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, safe, TV with Disney programming, and free Wi-Fi. Note that while the pull-down Murphy beds are designed for guests up to 6 feet tall, they’re most comfortable for children or smaller adults.

One of the resort’s unique offerings is its Royal Guest Rooms, themed to celebrate Disney princesses. These special princess room accommodations feature ornate beds with fiber-optic headboards that create a magical fireworks display, custom artwork featuring Princess Tiana and her Disney princess friends, and special lighting fixtures and royal-themed furnishings. Throughout the room, guests will discover hidden magical touches that make their stay even more enchanting.

When it comes to views, guests can select from several options. Standard views overlook parking areas or rooftops, while garden views showcase the resort’s beautiful landscaping and courtyard areas. Pool views offer vistas of the resort’s swimming areas or fountain features, and the coveted river views provide peaceful scenes of the Sassagoula River or waterways. For added convenience, preferred rooms are located closer to the main building, dining, and transportation areas.

Dining Options

A stay at Port Orleans Riverside includes access to dining options at both Riverside and French Quarter, effectively doubling your convenient dining choices.

Riverside Mill Food Court

The Riverside Mill Food Court serves as the resort’s main quick-service dining location. Housed in a fascinating building designed to look like a working cotton mill, complete with a functioning waterwheel and other industrial-age machinery, the food court offers a diverse menu. Guests can enjoy made-to-order pasta, pizza and flatbreads, burgers and sandwiches, fresh salads, Southern specialties, and an array of desserts and beverages.

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory

Guests shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit French Quarter’s Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, famous for their fresh-made beignets dusted with powdered sugar – a New Orleans specialty that draws visitors from all around Disney World. The food court also offers po’boys, gumbo, jambalaya, and other Creole-Cajun specialties that complement Riverside’s dining options.

Boatwright’s Dining Hall

Boatwright’s Dining Hall, the resort’s table service restaurant, is themed as a converted boat-building warehouse, featuring hanging tools and an unfinished hull suspended from the ceiling. The menu focuses on Southern specialties, including memorable dishes such as jambalaya, slow-roasted prime rib, Nashville hot chicken, and shrimp and grits. The restaurant’s atmospheric setting and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit during any stay.

River Roost Lounge

For evening entertainment, the River Roost Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere with nightly entertainment, including performances by the beloved “Ye Haa” Bob Jackson on select nights. The lounge provides a full bar service with specialty cocktails, along with light appetizers and a carefully curated selection of beer and wine.

Muddy Rivers Pool Bar

Near the main pool, Muddy Rivers Pool Bar serves as a convenient spot for swimmers and sunbathers to enjoy frozen drinks, beer and wine, soft drinks, and light snacks without leaving the pool area.

Recreation and Activities

One of the advantages of staying at Port Orleans Riverside is access to recreational activities at both Riverside and French Quarter. The heart of Riverside’s recreational offerings is the Ol’ Man Island Pool Complex, designed to resemble an old swimming hole. This vibrant area features a 95-foot water slide, hot tub, and kiddie pool, with regular activities led by Cast Members throughout the day. For those seeking a more peaceful swimming experience, five additional quiet pools are scattered throughout the resort grounds. Guests also have access to French Quarter’s Doubloon Lagoon Pool, featuring a 51-foot sea serpent water slide and decorative sea creatures that add playful splashes and sprays to the Mardi Gras-themed atmosphere.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of activities available at the resort. The Fishing Hole offers catch-and-release fishing in a stocked pond, while the Riverside Levee Marina provides boat rentals and fishing equipment. Families can explore the resort’s scenic pathways on Surrey bikes, available for rent at the marina.

A particularly romantic offering at Port Orleans Riverside is the horse-drawn carriage rides. These 25-minute rides travel along the scenic riverside paths between Riverside and French Quarter, offering a peaceful journey through the magnolia trees and past the rustic bayou. The carriages operate in the evening hours (weather permitting), and advance reservations are recommended. Each carriage can accommodate up to 4 adults, or 2 adults and 3 small children. During the holiday season, these transform into special “Holiday Sleigh Rides,” complete with festive decorations.

Evening entertainment includes nightly Movies Under the Stars shown on the lawn (weather permitting) and seasonal campfire activities with marshmallow roasting and storytelling. The Medicine Show Arcade provides indoor entertainment with both classic and modern games, while fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic one-mile jogging path that connects Port Orleans Riverside with Port Orleans French Quarter.

Shopping

Fulton’s General Store serves as the resort’s main shopping destination, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of Disney merchandise and resort-specific souvenirs. The store also carries essential sundries, toiletries, snacks, beverages, basic grocery items, and a range of clothing and accessories.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

Best Room Locations

• Magnolia Bend buildings 80 and 85 offer the shortest walks to the main building
• Alligator Bayou buildings 14 and 15 are closest to the main pool
• Building 90 provides easy access to both the main building and boat transportation
• Request upper floor rooms for better views and quieter surroundings

Transportation Tips

• Boat service to Disney Springs typically runs from 10 AM until 11 PM
• The first bus of the morning is usually less crowded
• Consider walking to French Quarter for additional transportation options
• Internal resort buses run between Riverside and French Quarter

Dining Strategies

• Riverside Mill is busiest between 8-10 AM and 5-7 PM
• Make Boatwright’s reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons
• Consider using mobile ordering at the food court during busy times
• Visit River Roost on nights when Bob Jackson performs

Recreation Recommendations

• The main pool is typically less crowded in the morning and during dinner time
• Quiet pools are perfect for afternoon swimming when the main pool is busy
• Book Surrey bikes early in the day before the afternoon heat
• Check the recreation calendar upon arrival for special activities

Why Choose Port Orleans Riverside?

Port Orleans Riverside distinguishes itself among Disney World’s moderate resorts through its unique combination of features. The resort’s peaceful setting and detailed theming create a relaxing escape from the parks, with extensive and beautiful grounds perfect for evening strolls or morning jogs. As a moderate resort, it offers significant upgrades from value resorts while maintaining a more reasonable price point than deluxe properties, with room quality, dining options, and amenities providing excellent value for the cost.

The resort’s location near Disney Springs, combined with its water transportation option, makes it particularly convenient for guests who enjoy evening entertainment and dining options beyond the parks. The variety of room types, including the unique Royal Rooms, allows the resort to accommodate different travel styles and group sizes effectively.

Seasonal Considerations

Best Times to Visit

• January-February: Cooler weather and lower crowds
• May: Beautiful weather before summer crowds and heat
• September-October: Fall decorations and moderate crowds
• Early December: Holiday decorations with moderate crowds

Holiday Experiences

During the Christmas season, Port Orleans Riverside features:

• Holiday decorations throughout the resort
• Special menu items at restaurants
• Holiday-themed activities
• Decorated Christmas trees in lobby and public areas

Planning Your Stay

Successful stays at Port Orleans Riverside often begin with careful planning. Booking well in advance is essential for Royal Rooms, and considering standard view rooms can provide better value. Watching for seasonal promotions can unlock additional savings opportunities.

When packing for your stay, consider the resort’s varied activities and Florida’s climate. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the extensive grounds, and swimming gear is useful year-round thanks to heated pools. Light layers help with air-conditioned spaces, while rain gear prepares you for afternoon showers. Don’t forget your camera – the resort’s scenic beauty offers countless photo opportunities.

Why Stay at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside offers a perfect blend of Southern charm and Disney magic. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a peaceful retreat between park visits, this resort delivers an exceptional experience. The combination of beautiful grounds, varied accommodation options, convenient location, and recreational activities makes it one of Disney World’s most well-rounded resorts. While it may not offer the luxury of deluxe resorts or the value pricing of value resorts, Port Orleans Riverside hits a sweet spot that makes it a favorite among Disney World veterans and newcomers alike.

For many guests, the resort becomes a destination in itself, worthy of dedicated time for exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re sipping a mint julep by the river, catching a performance at the River Roost, or watching the sunset from a wooden rocker, Port Orleans Riverside provides countless opportunities to create magical memories beyond the theme parks.