Welcome to a regal retreat at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Royal Guest Room! Join me on a tour through this enchanting room, where Disney magic meets Southern hospitality.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure policy and privacy policy.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside is one of five Walt Disney World’s Moderate level resorts. It’s themed after the charming and romantic Old South, evoking the ambiance of Louisiana’s bayou region.
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort is divided into two distinct sections: Magnolia Bend, featuring elegant plantation-style three-story mansion buildings, and Alligator Bayou, showcasing rustic lodges nestled amongst lush landscapes.
The overall atmosphere transports guests to a picturesque riverside community, complete with calming waterways, cobblestone streets, and Southern hospitality. Throughout the resort, guests can enjoy activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, fishing, and themed dining experiences, immersing them in the timeless charm of the Deep South.
This Walt Disney World property is located in the Disney Springs Resort Area, making it the perfect choice to be close to not only more shopping and dining options at Disney Springs, but also close proximity to the theme parks. It is also within walking distance or a quick boat ride to Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter, where I suggest you stop to get the famous Mickey-shaped Beignets!
Port Orleans Riverside Royal Guest Room Tour
I was able to book two Royal Guest Rooms three months out from our girls trip to the Walt Disney World Resort, and I’m beyond happy that we stayed in these princess rooms. Usually, when I travel to Disney World, I’m either with my husband and kids or traveling solo to slow down and explore all that Disney has to offer.
But this trip was much different! I had the opportunity to be a tour guide to my mom, mother-in-law, and aunt on this trip! And while originally, I had us booked over at Port Orleans French Quarter, I saw a few pictures of the new royal guest rooms and immediately knew, I had to switch my reservations for this special occasion.
I requested for our rooms to be close in proximity, and was so happy to discover that when I received the text that our rooms were ready, they were connecting! The Royal Guest Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside are located within the Magnolia Bend section of the resort. Specifically, they are situated within the Oak Manor and Parterre Place buildings, as shown below marked by the Mickey Head.
Royal Guest Room
Our woods view rooms were located in Parterre Place on the second floor, room numbers 9747 and 9748. And can I tell you how giddy I was when I opened the door to our room and saw this:
This amazingly themed room has two queen size beds and sleeps up to 4 adults. The room itself is very comfortable, spacious, and brightly lit. Also, keep your eyes open for all the intricate little details displayed throughout the room, including the wallpaper border.
Seating Area and Dresser
There is a small seating area with a table and two chairs. Above the table are some really cool banner pictures with various princes’ silhouettes on them. And the cutest detail, is a lovely letter from Princess Tiana herself!
Across from the beds is a large dresser that holds a mini fridge (NOT a beverage cooler like they have at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort), 3 dresser drawers, and a mini-Keurig, complete with paper cups and all the fixings.
Above each of the beds has its own lighting, along with the BEST detail in this room – the headboard!  If you watch my Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Royal Guest Room tour, you’ll see there’s a button on the outside of each bed headboard. Those buttons turn on fiber optics on the headboards that mimics lightning bugs and fireworks! Absolutely magical! Â
In between the beds is a small nightstand with a drawer, a couple of outlets, and the new “Hey Disney” support device that you can use to check the weather, park hours, or even play Disney trivia on!
Bathroom Area
The vanity of the bathroom area is well-appointed with two sinks, two separate mirrors (including a full-length mirror on the toilet/shower door), and an open closet area with hangers, additional blankets, and an ironing board. Â To see more of the bathroom, watch my YouTube video!
In the bathroom, you’ll find a very subtle nod to the movie, “Aladdin”. I even missed it the first time! Can you see it?
Both of the sink faucets are made into genie’s lamp, how fun is that?! And not only that but if you check out my video room tour, you’ll also see that the shower curtain has Little Mermaid designs!
On the wall between the bathroom and the main living space, is a fun collage of most of the Disney Princesses including: Snow White, Jasmine, Cinderella, Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, and Aurora. A nice touch for princesses of all ages!
Next to the cabinet, is another fun not-so-hidden detail: This footstool is from the movie, “Beauty and the Beast”. The dog, Sultan, who lived in the Beast’s castle, was turned into a gold and red footstool with brown wooden legs under the curse of the enchantress.
Another fun surprise is in the middle of the floor and that’s the magic carpet from, “Aladdin”.
Are there any fun hidden gems I may have missed? Leave me a comment down below so we can all find them!
Overall Thoughts on Port Orleans Riverside Royal Guest Room
To say, “I loved it” is an understatement. Not only did the theming of the room add to my magical stay, but the comfortability of the bed was incredible. I mentioned this several times to my family members during our stay, that I had the best night’s sleep I had in months!
Another major plus to our Royal Guest Room is the location. It’s only a 5 minute walk from the main building that houses all of the dining and shopping. The main bus stop (South Depot) is also situated very close.
There is a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Sassagoula River from the Magnolia Bend room area that can take you to the main area of the resort. The picture below shows in purple how to get to the lobby, dining and the gift shops and the orange shows how to get to the South Depot bus stop.
While I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in a Port Orleans Riverside Royal Guest Room, I probably won’t be returning to this particular room category. However, if I ever take another girls trip or take my daughter (who was absolutely OBSESSED with the pictures I showed her!), I wouldn’t hesitate to book this room.
With that being said, when I returned from my trip, I couldn’t stop talking about how gorgeous Port Orleans Riverside Resort was and how we should look into staying here on a future Disney World trip! The grounds are incredible and the amenities are phenomenal. Also, you truly can’t beat the location! You are so close to the theme parks and Disney Springs.
If you’re on the fence, keep on reading to see and read more about this whimsical resort!
The Lobby Area of Port Orleans Riverside Resort
The lobby area of Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside is designed to evoke the charm of the antebellum South, with its cozy and relaxing atmosphere. It’s open and airy with rustic lanterns hanging down from the high, windowed ceiling.
There are wooden accents, wrought iron fixtures, and colorful murals depicting scenes from the Mississippi River region. This building is the ‘hub’ and can lead you to various areas within this building.
When you first enter the main doors and make a right, that will take you to the front desk for Check-in, Concierge, and Bell Services. In this area, you’ll also find plush armchairs, sofas, and coffee tables, where guests can relax and unwind.
Dining Options at Port Orleans Riverside Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort has quite a bit of dining options that will please everyone in your party! Here is what you can find:
Bars and Lounges
- River Roost Lounge – This lounge is a popular spot for guests to relax and enjoy drinks and appetizers. What this bar is most famous for though, is its live entertainment from the talented pianist, Yehaa Bob Jackson. Yehaa Bob is a beloved entertainer who engages the audience with his energetic piano playing, sing-alongs, and comedic antics. You can find him at the River Roost Wednesday through Sunday evenings from 8:30 – 11:45pm.
- Muddy Rivers – This poolside bar has a relaxed and tropical atmosphere, designed to feel like you’re at a laid-back riverside hangout. They offer a small menu of light snacks and appetizers, along with a wide selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and mocktails.
Quick Service
- Riverside Mill Food Court – This large family-friendly food court is set up in a spacious and open area. It’s designed to resemble a bustling riverside marketplace, with 5 food stations and a Grab’n Go area too. Everything from omelets, gumbo, burgers, and fun bakery options are offered here. They are open daily from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Table Service
- Boatwright’s Dining Hall – Boatwright’s is a Table Service restaurant that is designed to resemble a shipyard warehouse, with nautical-themed decor and rustic furnishings. It is very casual and relaxed which makes this perfect for parties with kids. They offer a wide range of southern specialties like Red Beans and Rice, Boudin Balls, and Praiine-Bourbon Bread Pudding. They also have some familiar dishes like prime rib, chicken, and French onion soup.
Scat Cat’s Club Cafe at Port Orleans French Quarter
While not located at Port Orleans Riverside, this super popular quick service spot at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter serves up the most delicious Beignets! Many guests will come from other resorts just to try these blissful beignets.
There are a few ways to get to Scat Cat’s Cafe. There is an easy access walking path that takes about 10 minutes from Riverside to the French Quarter. Alternatively, you can also take a lovely boat ride from Riverside to French Quarter. However you get there, just get there! I promise it will be worth it!
Transportation at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort offers several transportation options to help guests travel around the Walt Disney World Resort. Here are some transportation offerings:
Disney Bus Transportation
Complimentary bus service is available to transport guests from Port Orleans Riverside to all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), as well as to Disney Springs. Throughout the resort, you will find several bus stops (depots) for your convenience. Here is the current order in which the buses stop and pick-up:
- West Depot
- North Depot
- East Depot
- South Depot (Main Building)
These buses also work as an Internal Shuttle. For example, if you want to grab some food at the food court and you’re staying in the Acadian House near the North Depot, what you’ll do is hop on the next bus (any bus whether that be Epcot, Magic Kingdom, etc.) and allow the bus to make its stops. Just be sure to get off at the South Depot, the bus stop closest to the main building, before it heads off to its destination.
To get back to the Acadian House from the South Depot, you can either walk back or take the Disney Springs bus, as it’s the first stop for the official Internal Shuttle for Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. This bus also takes you to Port Orleans French Quarter. The order for the Disney Springs Internal Shuttle is as follows:
- French Quarter
- South Depot
- West Depot
- North Depot
- East Depot
Transportation to the theme parks begins running 45 minutes before theme park opening and will continue running until one hour after the theme parks close.
Water Transportation
For a unique and scenic way to travel, guests can take a leisurely boat ride to Disney Springs aboard a water taxi. The boat dock at Port Orleans Riverside offers convenient access to this transportation option, providing guests with a relaxing journey along the Sassagoula River. It also stops off at Port Orleans French Quarter.
When you return to the Disney Springs Marketplace Dock, you’ll be looking for a yellow flag, to signify the boat returning to Port Orleans Riverside. If you see both a yellow and purple flag, this means that the boat will be servicing both the French Quarter and Riverside.
Minnie Van Service
Disney’s Minnie Van Service is a convenient transportation option operated by Lyft. Guests can request a Minnie Van through the Lyft app to travel to various destinations within the Walt Disney World Resort, including theme parks, water parks, and resort hotels. Let’s say you want to go to Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort from Port Orleans Riverside.
In your Lyft app, type in your destination, and up should pop a bunch of different options. The Minnie Van option should be the very first option on the list. Also note, you don’t need to go to the main lobby to be picked up for the Minnie Van service or Rideshare. Simply walk to your closest parking lot and select that lot pick-up within the app.
Activities at Port Orleans Riverside Resort
Pool Time
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort features six heated pools spread across its grounds, providing guests with plenty of opportunities to cool off and relax during their stay. And don’t worry. No matter where your room is, there’s a pool nearby!
- Ol’ Man Island Pool: This is the main pool at Port Orleans Riverside, located on Ol’ Man Island. It features a rustic theme with a water slide resembling an old-fashioned sawmill, a whirlpool spa, and a children’s splash area. Here you will also find the pool bar, Muddy Rivers. You’ll also find a hot tub near this pool.
- Mardi Gras Pool: This pool is located near the Alligator Bayou section of the resort. It features a Mardi Gras theme with colorful decorations and a festive atmosphere.
- Alligator Bayou Leisure Pool: This pool is exclusive to guests staying in the Alligator Bayou section of the resort. It offers a quieter and more secluded swimming experience, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the bayou landscape.
- Magnolia Bend Leisure Pool: Similar to the Alligator Bayou Leisure Pool, this pool is exclusive to guests staying in the Magnolia Bend section of the resort.
- Trinidad South Village Pool: This pool is located in the Trinidad South section of the resort. It features a Caribbean theme with vibrant colors and tropical accents.
- Trinidad North Quiet Pool: Exclusive to guests staying in the Trinidad North section of the resort, this pool offers a serene and secluded environment for relaxation and recreation.
The pool hours for Ol’ Man Island pool are from 10 am to 10 pm daily, weather permitting. The 5 leisure pools are open daily from 7 am to 11 pm, weather permitting.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
The horse-drawn carriage rides at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort offer guests a charming and romantic experience reminiscent of old-fashioned Southern hospitality. The carriage rides depart on the marina (behind the lobby) and fits up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 3 small kids. The cost is $65 for a 25-minute carriage around the picturesque grounds of Port Orleans Riverside Resort.
Reservations are highly recommended however, they might be able to accommodate same-day rides and walk-ups.
Surrey Bike Rentals
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort offers bike and surrey rentals as part of its recreational activities for guests looking to explore the resort’s scenic grounds in a fun and active way. Guests have the choice between traditional bicycles or surreys, which are multi-person, pedal-powered vehicles resembling oversized bikes with bench seating.
Surreys are a great option for families or groups who want to ride together and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. The cost to rent a surrey bike is$25 per half-hour and can accommodate up to 4 people.
Dockside Fishing
At Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort, guests have the opportunity to enjoy fishing at the Fishin’ Hole, a catch-and-release fishing located on Ol’ Man Island near Muddy Rivers pool bar. The Fishin’ Hole opens at 7am daily, and the last fish pole rental is at 1:15 pm.
Pole rentals are $6.50 for individuals for 30 minutes. For families up to 6 people, the price is $15.00 for 30 minutes, and all poles include reels and bait. The Sassagoula River is home to various freshwater fish species, including bass, bluegill, and catfish, all of which you might see!
Arcade at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside
Medicine Show Arcade at Port Orleans Riverside Resort, is the resorts arcade situated within the main building.
Here you will find not only classic arcade games like pinball, air hockey, racing games and shooting games, but here you will find massage chairs!
And these guys are incredible after a long day at the parks, but be aware, the arcade closes at 10 pm. I visited several times during my trip and a few times I would have to circle back to them, since they were both being used. They are THAT good!
Jogging Trail
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort offers a scenic jogging trail for guests looking to maintain their fitness routine or enjoy a leisurely run amidst the resort’s lush surroundings. There are two routes, one being 1-mile around Port Orleans Riverside, and the other route is 1.7 miles which includes Port Orleans French Quarter.
Shopping at Port Orleans Riverside Resort
Fulton’s General Store is the primary shopping location at Port Orleans Riverside. This quaint and charming shop is located near the main lobby and offers a wide range of merchandise. Guests can find everything from Mickey ears and plush toys to snacks, medicine, sunscreen, and other travel essentials.
In addition to souvenirs and gifts, Fulton’s General Store also stocks a range of convenience items including beverages, toiletries, frozen and shelf-stable food, over-the-counter medications, and other items that guests may have forgotten to pack.
Various Accommodations at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort
There are many room options to choose from at Port Orleans Riverside Resort based on guest preferences and group sizes.
- Standard Room: This is the most common room type and comes with either two queen beds or one king bed. They are suitable for up to four guests.
- Royal Guest Room: These rooms feature special theming inspired by Disney’s Princess and the Frog movie. They typically have two queen beds and can accommodate up to four guests.
- Preferred Room: These rooms are located closer to the resort’s main amenities, such as dining, pools, and transportation options. They offer the convenience of proximity and often come with either two queen beds or one king bed.
- Accessible Rooms: Port Orleans Riverside offers accessible rooms equipped with features such as wider doorways, roll-in showers, and other accessibility features to accommodate guests with disabilities.
View Types at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort
At Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort, guests can enjoy various scenic views depending on their preferences. The resort offers the following view types:
- Standard View: Standard view rooms provide views of the resort’s grounds, including landscaped gardens, pathways, and recreational areas. While these rooms may not offer specific scenic vistas, they still provide a pleasant atmosphere amid the resort’s lush surroundings.
- Garden View: Garden view rooms offer picturesque views of the resort’s beautifully manicured gardens and landscaping. Guests staying in these rooms can enjoy the tranquility of nature and may have glimpses of water features or bridges within the resort.
- Water View: Water view rooms provide guests with a river view of the Sassagoula River. Guests staying in these rooms can enjoy watching boats pass by, observing wildlife, and soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
- Pool View: Some rooms may offer views of the resort’s swimming pools. Guests staying in these rooms can enjoy convenient access to the pool area and may appreciate the lively atmosphere around the poolside.
- Preferred View: Preferred view rooms offer guests prime locations within the resort, typically closer to amenities such as dining facilities, transportation options, and recreational areas. While the specific view may vary, guests can enjoy the added convenience of proximity to key resort features.
Pin it for Later!
Have you ever stayed in a Royal Guest Room at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside? Or maybe you’ve stayed at Port Orleans Riverside in general? Let me know your favorite thing about this resort (or what you’re looking forward to most on your upcoming trip!) I would love to chat with you!
Looking for other Walt Disney World Room Tours? Check out these Disney World Resorts next!
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Deluxe Studio Tour
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort Deluxe Studio Villa
- Disney’s Copper Creek Deluxe Studio Villa Room Tour
- Disney’s Riviera Resort Preferred One Bedroom Villa Tour
- Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Room Tour
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Value View Room Tour
- Disney’s Bay Lake Tower Room Tour
2 Timothy 2:13 - "If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself."
Leave a Reply