With over 30 resorts on property at Walt Disney World, one of the biggest challenges to planning a Disney vacation is deciding where to stay. One of my favorite resorts in the moderate category is Port Orleans French Quarter. This quaint resort along with its adjoining sister property, Port Orleans Riverside, has much to offer both families and adult-only vacationers. Here are five reasons you will be ‘jazzed’ by your stay at a Port Orleans resort.
Enjoy the Shared Activities of Both Resorts
With the adjoining property of Port Orleans French Quarter and Port Orleans Riverside, you are able to easily enjoy the amenities of both resorts. These two properties are one of the exceptions to the “no pool hopping” rule at Disney instead, guests are able to visit any of the pools at either resort. Your family will also love renting a bike at either location and wheel around the beautiful property. For an extra fun biking experience, you can rent a four-wheel surrey bike at the Riverside Levee Marina.
Just a Boat Ride Away from Disney Springs
The Port Orleans Resorts are conveniently located near the Disney Springs shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. The Sassagoula River Cruise offers free ferry service from both Port Orleans resorts down the river to Disney Springs. The leisurely 15-20 minute ride is relaxing and a great alternative to bus or car transportation.
Listen to Live Jazz Music
What would a visit be to Port Orleans be without jazz music? Unwind in the New Orleans-style lounge at Port Orleans French Quarter. Live musicians entertain guests at the Scat Cat’s Club every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. Be sure to enjoy some Mickey-shaped beignets Scat Cat’s Club – Cafe.

Sample Savory Southern Cooking at Boatwright’s Dining Hall
Boatright’s Dining Hall is one of Disney’s best-kept dining secrets. This fairly easy-to-book dining location at Port Orleans Riverside fulfills your hankering for the flavors of the Louisiana bayou. Boatwright’s Dining Hall offers bona fide bites from the Big Easy including Mardi Gras Fritters and their famous Boatwright’s Jambalaya.
Enjoy the Scenery Along the Sassagoula River
The Port Orleans Resorts are both located along the scenic Disney-created Sassagoula River. The picturesque river runs 2 1/2 miles through a beautiful wooded area, past the Saratoga Springs Resort to the Lake Buena Vista – home to Disney Springs. For some added fun, guests can even enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides along the banks of the river. You’ll board your carriage for a 25-minute ride at the Riverside Levee Marina at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.
Check out these resort guides for details on these great resorts: Port Orleans French Quarter and Port Orleans Riverside.
Ready to put a little jazz into your next Disney vacation? Contact me at natalie@castleandcruiseadventures.com to get started.