Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Nestled along the picturesque Sassagoula River at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter offers guests a magical blend of Southern charm and Disney whimsy. This moderate resort transports visitors to a romanticized version of New Orleans’ famous French Quarter, complete with gas lamps, wrought-iron balconies, and cobblestone streets, and is one of the most popular Disney resort hotels, it is always in high demand.

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Summary

• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter was originally called Disney’s Port Orleans Resort when it opened in 1991. When Disney’s Dixie Landings Resort (now Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) was rebranded in 2001, the original Port Orleans became “Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter” to distinguish it from its sister resort “Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.”
• Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter is a moderate resort designed to capture the romantic spirit of New Orleans, featuring cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and wrought-iron balconies along the Sassagoula River.
• The resort’s compact size with just 1,008 rooms makes it one of Disney World’s smallest moderate resorts, offering efficient transportation with dedicated bus service and boat access to Disney Springs.
• Rooms are approximately 314 square feet and offer various views including garden, river, pool, and standard views, with buildings 5-7 being optimal for river views.
• The main dining option is Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, a food court serving New Orleans-inspired cuisine and famous for its fresh beignets, complemented by Scat Cat’s Club lounge.
• The Doubloon Lagoon pool features a 51-foot sea serpent water slide named Scales, along with decorative jazz-playing alligator fountains and a hot tub.
• The resort shares amenities with neighboring Port Orleans Riverside, giving guests access to additional dining options including Boatwright’s Dining Room (table service), Riverside Mill Food Court, and River Roost lounge featuring Yehaa Bob’s entertainment.
• Located in the Disney Springs Resort Area, French Quarter offers a peaceful 20-minute boat ride to Disney Springs along the Sassagoula River.
• The resort’s main building, Port Orleans Square, houses the front desk, Jackson Square Gifts & Desires shop, and serves as the central hub for resort amenities and transportation.

Port Orleans French Quarter Location and Transportation

The resort’s location is one of its strongest assets, situated in the Disney Springs area of Walt Disney World. Transportation options here are particularly convenient, with both bus and boat service available to key destinations.

The bus service at French Quarter is especially efficient due to the resort’s compact size. Unlike its larger neighbor Port Orleans Riverside, French Quarter is the only stop on its bus routes, which means faster travel times to and from the parks. Dedicated buses run to all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), both water parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach), and Disney Springs. During peak times, such as park opening and closing, buses typically run every 20 minutes. In off-peak hours, they generally operate every 30-40 minutes. The resort shares bus service with Port Orleans Riverside only for Disney Springs routes during non-peak hours and for trips to the water parks.

The bus stop area is centrally located near the main building and features covered waiting areas with benches. Digital boards display real-time arrival information for each destination, making it easier to plan your departures. For guests with mobility devices or strollers, the buses are equipped with easy-access ramps and designated spaces.

One of the most enchanting aspects of the resort’s location is its position along the Sassagoula River, which provides a unique transportation alternative to Disney Springs. The complimentary water taxi service offers a scenic 20-minute journey down the river, with boats typically running every 15-20 minutes from mid-morning until around midnight. The boat dock is located behind the main building, and the peaceful ride takes you past Port Orleans Riverside and through tree-lined waterways before arriving at the Disney Springs Marketplace dock. This route is not just transportation – it’s an attraction in itself, offering beautiful views and a relaxing escape from the parks’ energy. The boats are covered for sun protection but open-sided to allow for cool breezes, and they can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers (though they must be folded for storage).

Port Orleans French Quarter Theming

Disney’s Imagineers have outdone themselves in recreating the essence of New Orleans’ French Quarter. The resort’s seven buildings, standing three stories tall, showcase the distinctive French Quarter architecture with its ornate wrought-iron railings, dormer windows, and elegant facades. Gas-style lampposts line the cobblestone streets, while magnolia trees and crepe myrtles provide shade and Southern ambiance.

The theming extends beyond the buildings themselves. Throughout the resort, you’ll find charming touches that bring New Orleans to life: street signs bearing names like “Rue D’Baga” and “Jazz Court,” hidden Mickey fleur-de-lis patterns, and playful sculptures of musical alligators that pay homage to New Orleans’ rich jazz heritage.

Port Orleans French Quarter Accommodations

The resort features 1,008 guest rooms spread across its seven buildings, making it one of Disney World’s more intimate moderate resorts. Standard rooms are approximately 314 square feet and can accommodate up to four adults. Each standard room comes well-equipped with modern amenities including two queen beds or one king bed, a bathroom with separate vanity area, and thoughtful additions such as a mini-fridge, coffee maker, flat-screen TV, and high-speed internet access. In-room safes and iron/ironing board combinations ensure guests have everything needed for a comfortable stay.

The Port Orleans French Quarter rooms’ decor continues the New Orleans theme with subtle touches like jazz-inspired artwork and fleur-de-lis accents. The color palette features rich purples, blues, and golds that evoke the festive spirit of Mardi Gras while maintaining a sophisticated feel.

When it comes to views, French Quarter offers several options that can enhance your stay. Standard view rooms typically overlook the parking area or portions of the resort’s buildings. Garden views provide pleasant vistas of the resort’s landscaping, courtyards, or smaller water features. The most sought-after are the river views, which offer scenic perspectives of the Sassagoula River and its tree-lined banks. Pool views are also available, overlooking the Doubloon Lagoon and its festive atmosphere. For those seeking quiet, interior courtyard views tend to be among the most peaceful, while rooms facing the river provide both tranquility and scenic beauty. Buildings 5, 6, and 7 offer the best chance for river views, while buildings 2 and 3 are ideally situated for pool views.

Port Orleans French Quarter Dining Options

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory

The resort’s primary dining option is the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, a bustling food court that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This quick-service venue is designed to resemble a New Orleans workshop where Mardi Gras floats are created, though the decor has been toned down in recent renovations for a more sophisticated atmosphere. The food court features multiple ordering stations, each specializing in different cuisine types, along with a grab-and-go market for quick snacks and drinks.

For breakfast, the food court offers both made-to-order items and ready-to-go options. Guests can choose from create-your-own omelets, Mickey waffles, the popular Cajun breakfast hash, fresh fruit, pastries, and traditional breakfast fare. The lunch and dinner menus showcase authentic New Orleans-inspired dishes such as jambalaya, gumbo, po’ boy sandwiches, and muffulettas, alongside American classics like burgers, salads, and pizza. A dedicated bakery station serves up the resort’s famous mickey-shaped beignets – hot, fresh, and generously dusted with powdered sugar, these New Orleans-style doughnuts are available throughout the day and have become the signature treat that keeps guests coming back for more.

Scat Cat’s Club

This intimate lounge serves as the resort’s bar and evening entertainment venue. Named after a character from Disney’s “The Aristocats,” Scat Cat’s Club offers live music along with specialty cocktails, beer, wine, and light bites in a jazz club atmosphere. The venue occasionally features live jazz music, adding to the authentic New Orleans experience.

Mardi Grogs Pool Bar

Located near the pool area, this casual bar serves refreshing beverages and light snacks, perfect for a poolside break.

Port Orleans Riverside Dining Options

As part of the shared amenities between the resorts, French Quarter guests have full access to several additional dining venues at Port Orleans Riverside, just a scenic walk away along the Sassagoula River.

Riverside Mill Food Court offers another quick-service option with a distinctive theme centered around a working cotton press from the riverfront levee days. This large food court features multiple stations serving American classics, pasta, pizza, salads, and sandwiches, along with grab-and-go items and beverages.

Boatwright’s Dining Room, the only table service restaurant between the two resorts, serves dinner in a warm, wooden setting designed to resemble a shipbuilder’s yard. The menu focuses on Southern specialties and Cajun-Creole cuisine, offering dishes such as crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, and prime rib. Advance dining reservations are recommended for this popular restaurant.

River Roost lounge provides evening entertainment and a full bar menu. The lounge is famous for hosting Yehaa Bob Jackson’s high-energy piano shows (on select nights), which have become legendary among Disney fans for their audience participation and fun atmosphere.

Muddy Rivers Pool Bar at Ol’ Man Island offers another option for outdoor refreshments, themed to match its rustic swimming hole surroundings.

Port Orleans Square

The heart of the resort is its main building, known as Port Orleans Square, which serves as both the architectural centerpiece and the hub of guest services. This stately building welcomes guests with classic French Quarter design, featuring a grand porte-cochère entrance adorned with ornate wrought-iron details and classic New Orleans-style gas lamps. Inside, the lobby captures the elegance of a Southern manor with its high ceilings, classical furnishings, and magnificent chandeliers.

The main building houses the resort’s essential services, including the front desk, concierge services, and the resort’s gift shop, Jackson Square Gifts & Desires. This well-stocked shop offers everything from Disney souvenirs and resort-specific merchandise to vacation necessities and snacks. The building also provides convenient access to the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, making it a natural gathering place for guests throughout the day. The nearby water taxi dock and bus stop create a seamless flow for guests heading out to explore Disney World, while the building’s position along the Sassagoula River offers lovely waterfront views from its rear plaza.

Port Orleans French Quarter Recreation

The crown jewel of recreation at Port Orleans French Quarter is the Doubloon Lagoon pool. This distinctive aquatic area features a sea serpent named Scales, whose tongue serves as a 51-foot water slide. The pool area comes alive with decorative alligator jazz band figures that spray water, creating a playful atmosphere for families. A separate children’s splash area, hot tub, and spacious pool deck with plenty of lounge chairs round out the amenities. The nearby laundry facilities make it convenient for guests to combine pool time with practical necessities.

Beyond the pool, the resort offers numerous recreational opportunities. Guests can enjoy a scenic one-mile jogging trail along the Sassagoula River, take evening horse-drawn carriage rides, or watch movies under the stars. Bike rentals provide another way to explore the grounds, while a game room arcade and playground area ensure entertainment options for all ages.

Special Touches and Hidden Gems

What truly sets Port Orleans French Quarter apart are the small details and hidden gems throughout the property. The intimate courtyard gardens, featuring fountains, benches, and lush landscaping, provide perfect spots for reading, relaxation, or romantic moments away from the crowds.

The resort’s background music loop features a carefully curated selection of jazz music, including both traditional New Orleans jazz and Disney songs arranged in jazz style. This subtle touch helps maintain the immersive atmosphere throughout the property.

Port Orleans French Quarter shares amenities with its sister resort, Port Orleans Riverside, which is just a pleasant 10-15 minute riverside walk away. Guests at either resort can use the facilities at both properties, effectively doubling the available dining and recreation options. One of the most notable shared amenities is Ol’ Man Island at Riverside, a rustic 3.5-acre recreational island that offers additional swimming and leisure activities. The centerpiece of Ol’ Man Island is the swimming hole-style Ol’ Man Island pool with a 95-foot rustic sawmill-themed water slide. The area also features a fishing hole-themed children’s pool, a muddy river-themed spa pool that can accommodate up to 12 guests, and multiple quiet spots perfect for lounging. The theming reflects an old swimming hole in the Bayou, complete with a wooden deck and bridges, making it a distinctly different experience from French Quarter’s more playful Doubloon Lagoon. The island also features the Muddy Rivers Pool Bar, a fishin’ hole-themed spot perfect for grabbing refreshments while enjoying the pool area.

Best Times to Visit

While Port Orleans French Quarter is beautiful year-round, certain times offer unique experiences. During Mardi Gras season, the resort acknowledges the celebration with special decorations and menu items, enhancing the already festive atmosphere. The holiday season brings subtle yet elegant Christmas decorations that complement the existing New Orleans theme, creating a magical combination of gas lamps, holiday garland, and occasional “snow.”

For those seeking lower crowds and more moderate temperatures, September through November (excluding holiday weeks) and January through February often provide ideal conditions for enjoying the resort’s outdoor spaces.

Making the Most of Your Stay

When booking your room, consider requesting an upper floor for better views, or choosing buildings 2 or 5 for closest proximity to the main building and dining. River view rooms offer scenic vistas, while corner rooms provide slightly more space and windows, though these requests cannot be guaranteed.

For transportation, the boat to Disney Springs typically operates from around 10:00 AM until after Disney Springs closes, while bus service runs approximately one hour before park opening until about two hours after closing. During peak times or when heading to other Disney resorts, ride-share services can be a convenient alternative.

The dining experience at Port Orleans French Quarter deserves special attention. Try the beignets at different times of day, as they’re made fresh 24/7. Consider a refillable resort mug for multiple-day stays, and don’t miss seasonal specialty beignets when available. A peaceful breakfast at Sassagoula Floatworks before heading to the parks can set the perfect tone for your day.

As a moderate resort, Port Orleans French Quarter offers an excellent balance of amenities, theming, and price point. The resort typically costs less than deluxe properties while providing a more immersive experience than value resorts. The compact size, unique atmosphere, and convenient location make it particularly appealing for couples seeking a romantic getaway, first-time Disney visitors who want a manageable resort experience, those who plan to spend time at Disney Springs, and anyone with an affinity for New Orleans culture and cuisine.

Why Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter successfully captures the romance and charm of New Orleans while maintaining the high standards of Disney theming and service. The resort’s intimate size, distinctive atmosphere, and convenient location make it a standout choice among Disney World’s moderate resorts. Whether you’re sipping coffee over fresh beignets in the morning, relaxing by the pool in the afternoon, or taking an evening stroll along the Sassagoula River, the resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and Disney magic.

For many guests, Port Orleans French Quarter has become a favorite “home away from home” at Walt Disney World. It manages to feel both exotic and familiar, offering an esape to the Big Easy while keeping all the magic of Disney within easy reach. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another stay, this charming resort continues to capture hearts and create lasting memories for guests of all ages.