Table of Contents
So, you’re planning your dream Disney World vacation, and you’ve narrowed down your resort choice to the picturesque Port Orleans. Great choice!
But wait, there’s a twist – Port Orleans has two distinct sections, each with its own charm and character. Which one will you choose?!
On one side, you have the vibrant and lively French Quarter, transporting you to the heart of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebration. On the other, the peaceful Riverside calls to you, with its sprawling mansions and rustic bayou scenery.
Which one should you choose for your magical getaway?
Fear not, intrepid traveler, for we’re here to guide you through the ins and outs of these two breathtaking resorts.
Get ready to dive deep into the world of Port Orleans as we explore the differences between the French Quarter and Riverside, helping you make an informed decision that will elevate your Disney experience to new heights!
Overview of Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside
Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside are both gorgeous moderate resorts at Walt Disney World. Each has its own special theme and fun things to do.
The main difference between them is that French Quarter brings New Orleans’ charm to life. It has streets made of cobblestones, lovely gardens, and balconies with fancy ironwork. This place feels lively and full of energy, just like New Orleans.
Port Orleans Riverside is more about peaceful places in Louisiana. It feels quiet and dreamy, like being in a Louisiana bayou. You’ll see big mansions with white columns, colorful homes, and pretty paths. It’s a very relaxing and cozy spot.
Both resorts have everything you need to have a great vacation. Even though they’re considered moderate resorts, both of them feel like deluxe resorts.
You can stay in cozy rooms, eat at incredible restaurants, swim in pools, and do fun activities. We’ll go into more detail later on about everything you have available to you at both of these resorts.
Port Orleans French Quarter vs. Riverside Breakdown
Let’s break each section down by category to see the true difference between French Quarter and Riverside.
Theming
French Quarter brings loud music and bright colors. Think of the fun in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Here, you’ll see cobblestone streets and pretty balconies. Plus, you’ll hear jazz music all around you. It makes you feel like you’re in a big party.
If you’re at Riverside, it feels more calm and simple. The place looks like the countryside of Louisiana with its white mansions. And there are cozy cottages too. Everything is so peaceful, making this the perfect place to relax. You can walk by the water or enjoy the beautiful gardens. Riverside is your quiet, scenic getaway.
Amenities
Both resorts, Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside, have a lot to offer. Let’s dive into what each place has for you:
| Port Orleans French Quarter | Port Orleans Riverside |
|---|---|
| Doubloon Lagoon pool with a sea serpent water slide | Ol’ Man Island pool complex with a rustic waterslide |
| Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory food court | Riverside Mill Food Court |
| Scat Cat’s Club lounge with live entertainment | Boatwright’s Dining Hall table service restaurant |
| 24-hour quick-service dining | River Roost lounge with entertainment by Yehaa Bob |
| Arcade | Fishin’ Hole catch and release fishing |
| Bike and surrey bike rentals | Bike and surrey bike rentals |
| Playground | Playground |
| Recreational activities, such as movies under the stars | Recreational activities, such as campfire activities |
No matter if you love the excitement of French Quarter or the peace of Riverside, there’s something for everyone. Both places make sure you have a wonderful getaway.
Rooms
Both Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside give you comfortable rooms. These are perfect for a good stay. Let’s check out what’s cool in each place.
| Port Orleans French Quarter | Port Orleans Riverside |
|---|---|
| – Standard View | – Standard View |
| – Garden View | – Garden View |
| – River View | – Woods View |
| – Pool View | – Pool View |
| – King Bed | – King Bed |
| – Royal Guest Room (Princess themed) | |
| – Preferred Room (closer to main building) | |
| – Alligator Bayou Rooms (rustic theming) | |
| – Magnolia Bend Rooms (mansion theming) |
Port Orleans French Quarter Rooms
At Port Orleans French Quarter, there are rooms for four people. They are snug and welcoming. Ideal for families and friends wanting a nice spot at Disney World.
These rooms come with many nice things, such as:
- Two queen beds or one king bed
- Air conditioning
- Mini-refrigerator
- Coffee maker
- Flat-screen TV
- Iron and ironing board
- In-room safe
Port Orleans Riverside Rooms
Riverside has lots of room choices. From the basic rooms, there’s even more to pick from.
Here’s what rooms at Riverside offer:
- Two queen beds or one king bed
- Air conditioning
- Mini-refrigerator
- Coffee maker
- Flat-screen TV
- Iron and ironing board
- In-room safe
Plus, Riverside offers extra types of rooms:
- 5th Sleeper Rooms: These fit up to five guests. Great for big families or groups.
- Royal Guest Rooms: They have Disney Princess themes. Cool decor and special additions.
Regardless of your pick, both places give you really nice rooms. They make your stay comfy and fun with friends or family.
Transportation/Layout
Port Orleans French Quarter is cozy and easy to get around. It has one bus stop and you can walk to places easily. This makes staying here very convenient. On the other hand, Port Orleans Riverside is bigger and more spread out. It has more than one bus stop. This means you can get to your room from different places easily. The big area gives a feeling of space and lots to explore.
To understand better, let’s look at a table:
| Comparison of Transportation and Layout | Port Orleans French Quarter | Port Orleans Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation to Disney Parks | Bus transportation | Bus transportation |
| Transportation to Disney Springs | Boat service | Boat service |
| Layout | Compact | Spacious |
| Number of Bus Stops | 1 | Multiple |
Both places have easy travel to the parks and Disney Springs. But, French Quarter is easy to explore because of its small size. Riverside is big and has lots of space to enjoy and relax.
Think about what you like. Do you want a cozy place to stay or a bigger area to explore? Both resorts are great and offer different things.
Dining
Port Orleans Riverside has more dining choices than French Quarter. At Riverside, try the Southern-inspired dishes at Boatwright’s Dining Hall. You can also grab quick food at Riverside Mill Food Court.
French Quarter has Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, offering American and Cajun food. And at Scat Cat’s Club, there’s live music to enjoy.
Pools
Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside have great pools. They’re perfect for a break or just to have fun.
Doubloon Lagoon Pool at Port Orleans French Quarter
Talk about a seriously fun pool! This feels like a big Mardi Gras celebration, complete with jesters and colorful flags all around. Plus, there’s a cool sea serpent water slide. It’s perfect for some water fun.
Ol’ Man Island Pool at Port Orleans Riverside
At Riverside, there’s the Ol’ Man Island Pool. It’s very big and looks like it’s in the countryside. This pool is calm and great for relaxing after a busy day. It fits right into the natural beauty of Louisiana. There’s even a waterslide and a small pool for little ones. Everyone in the family will have a blast.
Whether you like the lively Doubloon Lagoon or the peaceful Ol’ Man Island, you’ll have a good time. These spots are awesome for unwinding and having fun in the water.
Cost
The room rates at both places are nearly the same. You will get a comfy room either way. But, Riverside has an edge with more discounts and special deals.
Early birds watching for deals might snag a better price at Riverside. These savings could really help stretch your Disney budget.
| Room Category | Port Orleans French Quarter | Port Orleans Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Standard View | $289 – $476 | $265 – $476 |
| Garden View | $299 – $486 | $297 – $486 |
| Pool View | $309 – $496 | $309 – $496 |
| River View | $309 – $496 | N/A |
| King Bed | $324 – $511 | $301 – $511 |
| Woods View | N/A | $297 – $486 |
| Standard View – 5th Sleeper | N/A | $281 – $491 |
| Woods View – 5th Sleeper | N/A | $313 – $502 |
| Preferred Location | N/A | $326 – $537 |
| Royal Guest Room | N/A | $362 – $573 |
Recreation and Entertainment
Both Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside are packed with fun. There are water adventures and cool outdoor activities for guests. You’ll find something you love at these Disney resorts.
Family-Friendly Activities
Both places have lots of activities for families. You can make s’mores and sing by the fire. Or watch a movie outside. Explore the beautiful resort lands on bikes. Love fishing? Try it in the resort’s waters. Kids can play at playgrounds, and there are fun games for everyone at the arcades.
Live Entertainment
At Port Orleans French Quarter, you can feel the jazz vibe at Scat Cat’s Lounge. Relax with live music as you enjoy drinks. Riverside has fun shows by Yehaa Bob at the River Roost Lounge. His piano skills and jokes will make everyone happy.
| Recreation and Entertainment | Port Orleans French Quarter | Port Orleans Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Pools | Doubloon Lagoon with sea serpent water slide | Ol’ Man Island Pool with rustic waterslide |
| Family-Friendly Activities | Campfire activities, movies under the stars, bike and surrey bike rentals, catch and release fishing, playgrounds, and arcades | Campfire activities, movies under the stars, bike and surrey bike rentals, catch and release fishing, playgrounds, and arcades |
| Live Entertainment | Scat Cat’s Lounge featuring live jazz music | River Roost Lounge featuring entertainment by Yehaa Bob |
Atmosphere
Deciding between Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside? The atmosphere is key. Each resort has its own vibe. This can make your stay much better.
French Quarter: Lively and Vibrant
Port Orleans French Quarter is full of New Orleans’ French Quarter’s charm and liveliness. It’s vibrant with music, colorful buildings, and a busy feel similar to the city’s big parties. You’ll feel the lively spirit of New Orleans as you walk around.
Riverside: Relaxed and Romantic
Port Orleans Riverside is more calm and romantic, like rural Louisiana. It looks like a quiet plantation by the river. You can walk by the calm river or relax in the quiet gardens.
The lively French Quarter and chill Riverside appeal to different people. Like fun, music, and New Orleans energy? Go for French Quarter. Prefer peace, romance, and getting away from it all? Riverside is your spot.
| Port Orleans French Quarter | Port Orleans Riverside |
|---|---|
| Lively and vibrant | Relaxed and romantic |
| Charm of New Orleans’ French Quarter | Rural Louisiana ambiance |
| Energetic atmosphere with music and festivals | Tranquil setting with scenic riverfront |
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside at Disney World really comes down to your preferences. Each resort has its unique vibe and gives different guest experiences.
Do you like a cozy vibe and lots of fun? Pick Port Orleans French Quarter. It feels like the lively New Orleans’ French Quarter with its neat streets. Here, there are fun features like a pool and places to eat, making your stay great.
Or maybe you love wide spaces and quiet spots more? Then, Port Orleans Riverside is for you. It looks like the calm areas of Louisiana, with big homes and small cabins. You can enjoy more pools and places to eat, ensuring a nice and fun stay.
Think about what you love – the theme, how much it costs, eating options, pools, and the general vibe. Consider what you really want for a great Disney vacation. This will help you choose the best place for you.
FAQ
Still can’t decide whether to stay at Port Orleans French Quarter or Riverside? Our FAQ should cover everything else you need to know.
What is the difference between Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
French Quarter is lively, like New Orleans’ French Quarter. Riverside feels calm, like rural Louisiana. Port Orleans French Quarter is lively and vibrant, evoking the festive atmosphere of New Orleans’ French Quarter. In contrast, Port Orleans Riverside has a calm and tranquil feel, reminiscent of the quiet romance of rural Louisiana.
What amenities do Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside offer?
Both resorts offer pools, dining options, and various recreational activities. French Quarter features a unique Mardi Gras-themed pool and a popular food court. Riverside boasts a sprawling pool complex, multiple dining locations, and an expansive food court.
How do the rooms at Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside differ?
French Quarter offers standard rooms accommodating up to four guests. Riverside provides a wider variety of room options, including accommodations for larger parties and themed rooms like the Royal Guest Rooms.
What is the transportation and layout like at Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
Both resorts rely on bus transportation to the Disney parks and offer boat service to Disney Springs. French Quarter has a compact layout with a single bus stop, while Riverside is more expansive with multiple bus stops throughout the resort.
What dining options are available at Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
Riverside offers more dining variety, including a table-service restaurant, a lounge, and a large food court. French Quarter has its own distinct dining offerings, such as a quick-service food court and the Scat Cat’s Club lounge featuring live jazz music.
What are the pools like at Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
French Quarter’s Doubloon Lagoon pool features a Mardi Gras theme and a sea serpent water slide. Riverside’s Ol’ Man Island pool complex is expansive, offering a rustic waterslide, a kiddie pool, and ample space for relaxation.
How do the costs compare between Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
The pricing for both resorts is generally comparable, with Riverside occasionally offering more promotional discounts. On average, French Quarter tends to be slightly less expensive than Riverside.
What recreational activities are available at Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
Both resorts provide a range of recreational activities, such as swimming, campfire events, and movies under the stars. French Quarter is known for its lively atmosphere and live jazz performances, while Riverside features unique entertainment like the comedic stylings of Yehaa Bob at the River Roost Lounge.
What is the atmosphere like at Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
French Quarter exudes a lively and energetic ambiance, while Riverside offers a more serene and laid-back environment. Each resort has its own distinct atmosphere, catering to different preferences and vacation styles.
Which resort should I choose between Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside?
The choice between French Quarter and Riverside ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the desired theme, budget, dining options, and overall resort atmosphere to determine which resort best suits your needs and vacation style.
Are Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside good options for a Disney World vacation?
Yes, both Port Orleans French Quarter and Riverside are excellent choices for a Disney World vacation. French Quarter offers a vibrant and immersive experience, while Riverside provides a tranquil and charming setting. Both resorts deliver exceptional Disney quality and service, ensuring a memorable stay for guests.
