Port Orleans Riverside vs. French Quarter: Which Disney World Resort Is Right for You?

Trying to decide between Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter for your Disney vacation? You're in the right place! When it comes to vacation planning Disney trips, picking the perfect resort can make a huge difference. Let’s dive into what makes these two Moderate Resorts special — and help you find your ideal Disney home away from home.

A Quick Look at Disney Resort Pricing Tiers

Before we get into the details, let’s quickly review Disney's resort categories:

  • Value Resorts: Budget-friendly and super fun.

  • Moderate Resorts: A little pricier, but with bigger rooms, more beautiful theming, and extra amenities.

  • Deluxe Resorts: Top-of-the-line luxury with the best locations and perks.

Both Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter are Moderate Resorts, meaning you’ll enjoy lovely grounds, bigger rooms, and some really nice extras — all without spending Deluxe Resort prices.

Disney's Port Orleans

Both Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter are Moderate Resorts

Port Orleans Riverside

Theme: Southern charm! It feels like you're strolling through the romantic bayou or a grand Southern plantation.

Vibe: Peaceful, spacious, and very picturesque. Riverside is perfect for guests who love gardens, riverside paths, and a slower pace.

Rooms: Some rooms are themed as "Royal Rooms" with extra princess touches, perfect for little royals in your party!

Pool: Ol' Man Island — a large, rustic-themed pool with a waterslide and a laid-back feel.

Transportation: Bus service to all parks, plus you can take a scenic boat ride to Disney Springs.

Why Choose It: If you love relaxing strolls, beautiful scenery, and maybe a bit of royal magic, Riverside is your spot.

Port Orleans Riverside

Port Orleans Riverside

Port Orleans French Quarter

Theme: New Orleans' historic French Quarter! Think wrought-iron balconies, jazzy music, and colorful Mardi Gras vibes.

Vibe: Smaller, super walkable, and lively but not overwhelming. It's the most compact Moderate Resort, which means less walking to get anywhere!

Rooms: Standard Moderate rooms, cozy and well-themed.

Pool: Doubloon Lagoon — a Mardi Gras party of a pool with a sea serpent slide and fun water features.

Transportation: Same as Riverside — buses to the parks and a boat to Disney Springs.

Why Choose It: If you love fun, festive environments and a resort that's easy to navigate, French Quarter is a fantastic choice.

Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter vs Riverside

Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter

So Which One Should You Choose?

  • Pick Riverside if you want a peaceful, spread-out resort with beautiful Southern scenery.

  • Pick French Quarter if you want a lively, compact resort that's full of character.

Both share some amenities, like boat rides to Disney Springs, and you’re welcome to walk between the two resorts if you want to explore both!

Port Orleans French Quarter vs Riverside

Enjoy boat rides from either resort to Disney Springs!

Vacation Planning Disney Made Easy

Feeling unsure about which resort fits your family's vibe best? That's totally normal! Vacation planning Disney trips can feel overwhelming, but that's where I come in. My Disney World Planning Guide makes it easy to pick the right resort, plan your park days, and create a vacation that's full of magic (and way less stress).

No matter if you pick Riverside or French Quarter, having a solid plan will help you enjoy every moment of your Disney adventure. Grab my guide and let's start making your dream vacation a reality!

Ready to start your magical journey? Which Port Orleans Resort are you leaning toward?

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How to Plan a Disney World Vacation: A Simple Guide for Busy Families