Port Orleans is one of Disney’s most charming moderate resorts, split into two distinct sections: Riverside, with its bayou charm and sprawling grounds, and French Quarter, a compact resort inspired by the jazz and flair of New Orleans.
Both offer access to scenic riverside walks, relaxing pools, and one boat transportation to Disney Springs. If you’re after Southern charm, immersive theming, and a quieter resort vibe, Port Orleans deserves a serious look.
Which Is Better Port Orleans Riverside or French Quarter
Choosing between Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter is kind of tricky and it depends on what you value.
Here is a quick comparison between the two resorts:
- French Quarter is smaller and more walkable, with a boutique feel and fun Mardi Gras theming. It’s also home to the beloved Disney beignets.
- Riverside is larger and more scenic, featuring both mansion-style and rustic bayou buildings. It has more pools, dining options, and even rooms that sleep five.
In my opinion, French Quarter is better for couples or guests who want simplicity. Riverside works well for larger families and those wanting a laid-back, nature-inspired resort.
Where Is Port Orleans in Disney World?
Port Orleans Resort is located in the Disney Springs resort area, nestled along the Sassagoula River, just east of EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. The resort is surrounded by wooded areas and walking paths.
How Far Is Port Orleans from Magic Kingdom?
Port Orleans is about a 10–15 minute bus ride to Magic Kingdom from Port Orleans. Riverside sometimes shares buses with French Quarter during off-peak times, so transit can vary slightly.
Port Orleans Restaurants
Both resorts have their own food offerings, but Riverside has the notable addition of a table service restaurant while French Quarter has Mickey Beignets.
Port Orleans Riverside Dining Options
- Riverside Mill Food Court: Quick-service meals including pasta, burgers, and Southern staples.
- Boatwright’s Dining Hall: Table-service dinner spot with hearty Cajun dishes like jambalaya, prime rib, and shrimp & grits.
Port Orleans French Quarter Dining Options
- Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory: Mardi Gras-themed food court serving pizza, burgers, gumbo, and beignets.
- Scat Cat’s Club: Lounge with jazz vibes and more beignets, plus cocktails and occasional live music.
Port Orleans Room Options
Room options at both Port Orleans resorts are pretty standard, to say the least. Standard rooms at both hotels sleep 4, with two queen beds or one king. Additionally, Riverside offers 5th sleeper rooms with a child-size pull-down bed. Port Orleans Riverside does have Royal Guest Rooms that include an extra layer of theming centered around The Princess and the Frog.
Neither resort offers family suites, but there is some nice theming. You’ll find Mansion buildings in Magnolia Bend (Riverside) and Alligator Bayou rooms scattered throughout the rustic section.
How Much Is Port Orleans?
Nightly rates typically range from $260 to $400, depending on the time of year and room type. Riverside’s 5th sleeper rooms sometimes cost a bit more, while French Quarter rates can fluctuate based on availability due to its smaller size.
Are Port Orleans Rooms Worth It?
For the right guest, Port Orleans is very much worth it. You get:
- Beautiful theming (especially at French Quarter)
- Convenient Disney Springs boat access
- Moderate pricing with upgraded perks like lounge and table-service dining
- A quieter vibe compared to value resorts
If you’re not relying on Skyliner and prefer charm over transit speed, Port Orleans delivers. Additionally, the rooms are a little larger than the value resorts and include better theming.
Port Orleans Transportation
All transportation at Port Orleans is via bus or boat as there is no Skyliner or monorail access.
Where do Port Orleans Boats Go?
The boat sails down the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs, offering a relaxing ride with scenic views. Boats typically run:
- From late morning to evening
- Every 20–30 minutes
You’ll dock near the Marketplace side of Disney Springs.
| Port Orleans to Magic Kingdom | Bus |
| Port Orleans to Epcot | Bus |
| Port Orleans to Hollywood Studios | Bus |
| Port Orleans to Animal Kingdom | Bus |
| Port Orleans to Disney Springs | Boat |
| Port Orleans to Blizzard Beach | Bus |
| Port Orleans to Typhoon Lagoon | Bus |
Comparisons
Port Orleans or Caribbean Beach
Caribbean Beach has Skyliner access and better pools. Port Orleans offers boat transit to Disney Springs and a more compact layout at French Quarter.
Port Orleans or Pop Century
Pop Century is more budget-friendly and faster for EPCOT/Hollywood Studios. Port Orleans is quieter, with better food and a more upscale atmosphere.
Port Orleans or Art of Animation
Art of Animation has family suites and bigger Disney theming. Port Orleans offers more adult appeal and charming architecture.
Port Orleans or Coronado Springs
Coronado is more business-like and has deluxe-style tower rooms and dining. Port Orleans is more romantic and scenic, with a cozier feel.
Port Orleans Map
Port Orleans FAQs
Are Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter Connected?
Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter are connected. You can walk between the two resorts along a riverside path. It’s about a 10–15 minute stroll and makes resort hopping easy, especially for dining. Additionally, you can take a boat between the hotels, just let the captain know where you are going before you board. Riverside’s internal bus loop should also make a stop at French Quarter if you let the driver know.
Which Port Orleans Resort Has Beignets?
French Quarter is where you’ll find Disney’s famous Mickey-shaped beignets. Sassagoula Floatworks and Scat Cat’s Lounge both serve them, with or without boozy dipping sauces. For a really sweet treat, I recommend the Mickey beignet sundae, which comes with two beignets and ice cream.
What Is Alligator Bayou?
What Happened to Dixie Landing Resort?
