Peace and Tranquility at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside. (Walt Disney World Port Orleans Resort Riverside)

Member Name: Campbell87

Product:	Walt Disney World Port Orleans Resort Riverside
Date:	11/02/09 (102 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: peaceful

Disadvantages: small rooms

Rated as one of Walt Disney Worlds 'Moderate' resorts, you will find yourself strolling along picture-esq river banks straight out of the pages of Tom Sawyer. The tranquility of the resort is perfect after a long day at the parks.

The winding Sassagoula River runs straight through the resort providing boat transportation to its sister site, Port Orleans French Quarter, and then further on to Downtown Disney. On your Sassagoula adventure you will see the Tree House Villas, once a part of the Disney Institute, these tree-tops are currently being refurbished and included as part of Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. The boat leaves the Marina (located near River Mill) around every 25minutes from 10am. You can also rent boats and have your own little adventure along the river!

But enough about the boat ride. The walkways are lined with bursts of year round colour and fragrance, one of the best ways to take them in is by renting a Surrey Bike, perfect for families and couples who need a little rest and relaxation after a long day at the parks. Just watch out for the wildlife! The resort is filled with natural neighbors, such as rabbits, squirrels, ducks and geckos!

The large white mansions along the banks of the Sassagoula boast grandeur and class. Rooms are simply yet effectively furnished, a standard consisting of two double beds, double sink area, shower/bath combined, toilet, closet space, in room electronic safe, internet access, desk and chair plus television with dozens of channels, including all your favorite Disney channels and special Park Guest channels where you will be kept up to date with all the latest information regarding your resort, park hours, show times and any important events or emergency's. Cots and rolling beds are available on request at either check in or concierge. The rooms are quite small but adequate for 4 - 5 people.

The refurbished Riverside Mill food court boasts a wide variety of treats to tickle the taste buds, from your all American fare to house specials. Make sure you try one of their freshly prepared pizzas! Prices are around $10 - $15.
For something a little more upscale, book a table at Boatwright's for a unique Southern cuisine meal. Prices are around $10 - $20 pp.
As with all Walt Disney World resorts, you will be provided with bus transportation to all four parks, 2 water parks and Downtown Disney (Marketplace and Westside). Busses run around every 15 - 20 minutes and park busses start operating 1hour before park opening (including extra magic hours) and will cease once all guests have left the park that evening. Downtown Disney busses run until around 2am.

The resort has one main pool, 'Ol Man Island' which consists of a large pool, waterslide and kiddie pool. Situated around the resort are also 5 smaller quiet pools. As a Port Orleans guest you are also invited to use the pool and amenities at the Port Orleans French Quarter. Please remember that the lifeguards only watch over the main pool!

Fulton's General Store, located inside the main building sells souvenirs, clothing, snacks, drinks and first aid. Photo processing is also available.
The Medicine Show Arcade is a great place to let the kids' hangout while the adults have some quiet time, but fun for the whole family is to be had so feel free to join them!

If your feeling romantic, horse drawn carriages are ready and waiting for around £30 for half an hour, the carriages have a retractable roof and can seat up to 2 adults and 3 children. They depart nightly from around 6pm.

Summary: Moderate resort filled with that old southern charm