By Devo CabDisney
Whenever I go to Walt Disney World, staying on property at a Disney resort is a no brainer. Many people think that they will save a lot of money if they stay off property, and maybe you can. But I think the perks far outweigh the costs. And if you don’t play your cards right, you could end up paying just as much if not more. You do have to pay for parking if you are not a Disney resort guest.
For me, the biggest challenge is deciding which resort to pick. I recently stayed at Disney’s Port Orleans-Riverside, and let me tell you, this is one of my favorites! I have stayed at some resorts that seemed to lack a little magic but you can tell that the people at Disney really got their hands on this one! I appreciate attention to details and this resort has tons of details!
The lobby is huge and the view of the resort property from the huge windows is stunning. You’ll find Disney touches everywhere, especially in the gift shop! And of course you’ll want to look for the obvious or not so obvious hidden Mickeys!
The entire resort is so charming, split into two areas that are completely different. Magnolia Bend is a salute to the stately mansions of New Orleans while the Alligator Bayou is exactly as it sounds! We stayed in one of the standard rooms of the Alligator Bayou. While the word “standard” may not appeal to some people, this room takes “standard” to a different level. Everywhere you look there are details.
The standard room sleeps up to five people with two queen beds and a pull down. The pull down bed is probably suited best for children since the bed is pretty short, but very cute none the less. I do have to say that the queen beds here at Riverside are probably the most comfortable moderate resort beds I’ve slept in. The cute pillows certainly add to the overall feel, and apparently they are available for purchase!
You really need to take some time and appreciate all the details found in the bathroom area. The shower walls are a faux wood tile which left me wishing I had that at home. The sink area features two sinks, washboard details, with stone flooring, and wooden branch style mirror frames. Again, I want this at home!
There are even details in the carpet. It’s Disney so I shouldn’t be surprised, but the carpet is designed to look like wood flooring. How fun is that? Overall, the rooms are very comfortable and welcoming. Which is exactly what you need after a long day at the parks.
Here’s the downside to staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside. Depending on where your room is located, you could do a whole lot of walking to get from your car or bus stop and your room. It’s a gorgeous walk with all sorts of plant life and water to appreciate, but you’re going to need your walking shoes!
Here’s a tip and one of the many upsides to staying at Riverside; you can take a boat to Disney Springs. Skip the hustle and bustle, not to mean the possible hassle of driving or taking the bus to Disney Springs and just hop a boat that will take you down the river right into Disney Springs. This scenic trip will give you a moment to relax while you plan your next adventures! Or you can take a short trip next door to the French Quarter for some yummy beignets!
Walking aside, this resort quickly became a favorite, and I can’t wait to return for another stay!
We stayed there in one of the royal rooms last year and loved it. My 2 girls were in “princess heaven”
I’m sure they were! The Royal Rooms are great!
It’s a great resort! One of my favorites for sure!
Thanks, Jodi!
Thanks, Beth! You should stay there one day! A visit is great but a stay is even better!