Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort is a charming and picturesque hotel located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Inspired by the romantic and scenic beauty of the southern United States, particularly the Mississippi River, this resort offers a unique blend of rustic charm and southern hospitality. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, Port Orleans Riverside has a special appeal for guests looking for a relaxed, serene atmosphere with a touch of Disney magic.
Theming and Atmosphere
Port Orleans Riverside is themed around the American South, with elements that reflect the natural beauty of the bayou, country landscapes, and antebellum architecture. The resort is divided into two main areas: the Mansion section and the Bayou section.
- The Mansion area is inspired by the stately homes of Louisiana and features large, elegant buildings with southern charm, beautiful gardens, and white columns.
- The Bayou area offers a more rustic, natural feel, with small cabins nestled among moss-draped trees and tranquil waterways. This section truly captures the spirit of the bayou, providing a cozy and more secluded experience.
The lush, well-maintained grounds and the gentle sounds of nature create a calming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day at the parks.
Accommodations
Port Orleans Riverside offers a variety of room types to suit different needs. The rooms feature Disney’s signature comfort and convenience, with a mix of traditional and modern amenities. The standard rooms come with two queen beds or a king-size bed, along with a pull-down bed to accommodate up to four guests. They also have a 5th Sleeper option for larger families that include a pull down single sleeper from under the TV area in addition to the two queens!
Guests can also opt for the Royal Guest Rooms, which are an added touch of Disney magic. These rooms are inspired by Disney princesses and feature luxurious decor, including ornate headboards that light up with shimmering fireworks, and touches that nod to Disney’s regal characters.
Dining
Port Orleans Riverside has several excellent dining options. For a casual meal, Riverside Mill Food Court serves a variety of hearty dishes, including southern-style favorites like fried chicken, jambalaya, and gumbo. The atmosphere of the food court mimics a rustic mill, adding to the charm of the resort.
For a more sit-down experience, Boatwright’s Dining Hall offers a Southern-inspired menu with dishes like shrimp and grits, beef tenderloin, and pecan-crusted catfish. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and themed decor make it a popular spot for families. Our Favorite here was the family style offering with barbecue ribs, Nashville hot chicken, smoked sausage, barbecued beef brisket, mashed potatoes, macaroni & cheese, street corn, and green beans!
For a more casual snack or drink, Muddy Rivers Pool Bar serves up tropical cocktails and light snacks near the resort’s pool area.
Recreation and Amenities
Port Orleans Riverside provides a variety of activities and amenities to enhance guests’ stay. Whether you’re looking to relax or stay active, there’s something for everyone.
- Pools: The resort features two main pools. The Ol’ Man Island pool is themed to look like a rustic fishing cabin and includes a waterslide and hot tub. There’s also a quieter pool near the Bayou section for those looking for a more peaceful swim.
- Biking and Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Guests can rent bicycles to explore the resort or even take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the grounds. It’s a lovely way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- Fishing: For those interested in fishing, the resort offers fishing excursions along the riverside, allowing guests to fish in the picturesque Sassagoula River.
Transportation
Getting around Walt Disney World Resort from Port Orleans Riverside is easy and convenient. The resort offers bus transportation to all four theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. For a more scenic experience, guests can take a boat ride along the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs, where they can shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment.
Additionally, the resort’s central location makes it a short ride away from other Disney resorts and key attractions.
Personal Thoughts
The pool areas and dining locations were top notch at this resort. While we had no real issues with our stay here, we did not like the lack of elevators in all the 2 story buildings. There were a few stairs even to get on the first floor and staying on the 2nd floor proved problematic with a 2 year old and a stroller to lug up to the second floor. It can also be quite a hike to the bus stop depending on where your room is located. Just something to consider if you stay at this resort!
The Neverland Nomad 