Disney's Port Orleans Riverside: Relax on the Bayou with a Little Southern Hospitality
Port Orleans Riverside is one of our favorite Moderate Resorts for guests who want a calmer, prettier home base. The grounds are green and sprawling, the Sassagoula River runs right through the property, and the whole place has a cozy, rustic Southern feel. It is a great fit if you like the idea of coming back to somewhere peaceful at the end of a busy park day.
NOTE: From early May 2025 through August 2027, Guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will undergo refurbishment in phases. During this time, refurbishment will take place across different sections of the resort, and Guests may see or hear work in the area.
Theming & Atmosphere
The resort is split into two styles. You have the grand antebellum mansion buildings on one side (Magnolia Bend) and the more rustic bayou cottages on the other (Alligator Bayou), with a lot of pretty landscaping and the river tying it all together. There are walking paths all over and quiet little spots along the water where you can sit for a bit. You can also walk over to the sister resort, Port Orleans French Quarter, which gives you more to see and do.
Room Options & Accommodations
There are a few room types here, so most families can find a good fit.
Standard Rooms: Two queen beds or one king, with a view of the river, pool, woods, or parking lot. A 5th sleeper option is available.
Preferred Rooms: Closer to the main building, so you are near dining and transportation. Also available with a 5th sleeper.
Royal Guest Rooms: Two queen beds with fun Disney details worked into the theming. Kids love these.
Dining Options
The food here leans into the Southern theme.
Riverside Mill Food Court (Quick-Service)
Casual Southern comfort food like fried chicken and jambalaya. The Mickey-shaped beignets are worth getting.
Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Price Range: $ ($14.99 and under per adult)
Dining Menu Linked Here
Boatwright’s Dining Hall (Table-Service)
A rustic, cozy sit-down spot serving Southern classics like shrimp and grits.
Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: $$ ($15–$34.99 per adult)
Dining Menu Linked Here
Recreation & Amenities
There is plenty to do at the resort:
Ol' Man Island Pool: The feature pool, with a water slide and a rustic look.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: A slow ride along the banks of the Sassagoula River.
Bike Rentals: An easy way to get around the grounds.
Movies Under the Stars: Family-friendly outdoor movie nights.
Sassagoula River Cruise: A boat ride over to Disney Springs.
Live Entertainment: Live music in the resort lounges.
Transportation & Park Access
Getting around is easy from here:
Disney Bus Service: To all four theme parks.
Sassagoula River Cruise: A boat ride to Disney Springs.
Driving: On-site parking is available for resort guests.
My tip: The boat to Disney Springs is one of the best parts of staying here. It makes for a really nice evening out.
This is an old map, but it still gives you a great idea of where the resort is located.
Location
The resort sits along the Sassagoula River, a short boat ride from Disney Springs. It shares some amenities with Port Orleans French Quarter, so you can wander over for more dining and recreation.
Cost & Value
For a Moderate Resort, Riverside is a solid value. Rooms usually run from $275 to $400 per night depending on the season and any current promotions. I always check for deals when I put your quote together.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Beautiful, peaceful theming with a rustic Southern feel
Access to both Riverside and French Quarter amenities
Boat transportation to Disney Springs
Great for families and couples who want a relaxing home base
Cons:
Limited dining options
No direct Skyliner access
Who Should Stay Here:
Riverside is a great pick if you love nature, Southern charm, and a slower pace. Families, couples, and anyone who wants a laid-back home base tend to really like it here. The theming is lovely, the grounds are calm, and that boat ride to Disney Springs is hard to beat.
If Port Orleans Riverside sounds like your kind of place, I would love to help you plan it.
Start Planning Nowand let’s make your trip magical. ✨
