So you’ve decided to plan an amazing Walt Disney World vacation; now what? Choosing your resort is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—and you can’t go wrong with Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside! Nestled along the scenic banks of the Sassagoula River, this resort offers a serene escape inspired by the romance of the American South. With its stately Southern-style mansions, quaint bayou lodges, and peaceful waterways, Riverside blends Southern hospitality with Disney magic. Whether you’re strolling under magnolia trees or enjoying a relaxing boat ride to Disney Springs, this moderate resort delivers charm, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your stay—from room options and dining to recreation and transportation—while soaking in the genteel beauty of the South.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique & cultivated theming
• Quiet grounds  
• Multiple pools 
• Water Taxi to Disney Springs 
• Variety of amenities & entertainment 
• Variety of room options 
• Access to amenities at Port Orleans-French Quarter  

Cons: 

• Large & spread out resort 
• Only bus transportation to and from parks 
• No sit down dining options (only quick service & lounges) 
• Theming may not be excited to children 

Resort Overview

Location Benefits

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside offers a prime location that combines peaceful seclusion with convenient access to the magic of Walt Disney World. Tucked along the tranquil Sassagoula River, the resort provides a serene, scenic setting that feels like a true escape—yet it’s still centrally located on property. Guests can enjoy relatively short travel times to EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the other theme parks via complimentary bus service. One of the resort’s most charming perks is the boat transportation to Disney Springs, offering a relaxing, picturesque ride to an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Whether you’re heading to the parks or planning a leisurely evening along the waterfront, Riverside’s location offers both convenience and calm, making it a perfect retreat after a busy day of adventures.

Resort Category: Moderate

Resort Area: Disney Springs

Guest Rooms

The guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside are designed to reflect the timeless charm of the American South, with two distinct themes to choose from. In the Magnolia Bend section, rooms are inspired by elegant Southern mansions, featuring refined decor and regal touches. In Alligator Bayou, the rooms offer a more rustic, woodsy vibe with cozy furnishings and natural textures. For an extra touch of magic, the resort also offers Royal Guest Rooms, featuring ornate details, rich colors, and nods to Disney princesses throughout. Guests can choose from Standard, Garden, Pool, River, or Preferred View rooms, many of which offer peaceful views of the Sassagoula River or beautifully landscaped grounds. 

Port Orleans Resort- Riverside offers room types that can accommodate 2 to 4 adults. It also offers 5th sleeper rooms that can accommodate 4 adults and 1 child. 

Standard Amenities in each room include: 

• Hairdryer 
• TV
• Free WiFi 
• Coffee maker 
• In-room beverage cooler 
• Telephone
• In-room safe
• Iron & ironing board 
• Outlets and USB ports are scattered throughout the rooms for your convenience
• Ample storage space; closets, drawers, bathroom counter space, & under the bed storage. 

It’s worth noting that the vanity/sink area is separated by a door from the shower & toilet. A sliding door separates the bathroom area from the bedroom area, providing some privacy. Bathrooms offer a double vanity. 

Room Types

Port Orleans Resort-Riverside offers various room types & views to suit your preferences & party size:

Standard Rooms  

• Standard View: Views of parking area
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Sleeps up to 4 adults 
• Woods View: Views of landscaping, courtyard, or bayou
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Sleeps up to 4 adults

5th Sleeper Rooms  

• Standard View 5th Sleeper: Views of parking area
  • 2 Queen Beds & 1 Child-Size Pull-Down Bed
  • Sleeps up to 4 adults & 1 child 
• Woods View 5th Sleeper: Views of landscaping, courtyard, or bayou
  • 2 Queen Beds & 1 Child-Size Pull-Down Bed
  • Sleeps up to 4 adults & 1 child

River or Pool View Rooms 

• River View: Views of riverfront
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Sleeps up to 4 adults 
• Pool View: Views of courtyard pool 
  • 2 Queen Beds 
  • Sleeps up to 4 adults

King Rooms 

• Woods or Water View: Views of landscaping, courtyard, garden, bayou, riverfront, or courtyard pool 
  • 1 King Bed
  • Sleeps up to 2 adults 

Royal Guest Rooms 

The Royal Guest Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offer a magical stay fit for royalty. Inspired by Disney princesses, especially Tiana from The Princess and the Frog, these elegantly themed rooms feature ornate décor, regal touches, and headboards with fiber-optic fireworks. With nods to classic Disney characters and royal treasures throughout, guests enjoy both comfort and enchantment in a setting that brings fairy tales to life—all nestled in the charm of the Louisiana bayou.

Each room can accommodate up to 4 adults with 2 Queen-Size Beds. Views include parking area, riverfront, landscaping, courtyard, bayou, or courtyard pool. 

Locations

• Standard Location: Located throughout the resort with varying views
• Preferred Location: Close proximity main amenities with varying views

Checking In and Out

There are multiple ways to check in for your stay; all being very easy. You can use the front desk, check-in online through the official Walt Disney World website, or utilize the My Disney Experience app.

After online check-in, you’ll receive a room-ready notification and can use your MagicBand or the digital key feature in the app to unlock your room door.

Using the app tends to be the quickest way to check in; it means you never have to wait in line to check in at the front desk. The MDE app can also be used virtually to chat with a cast member should you need any assistance. 

Guests will be automatically checked out of their rooms upon completion of their stay. Any unresolved charges will be put on the credit card on file & a final statement will be emailed to you. You may also visit the front desk if you wish.

Should you need assistance with your bags you’ll call bell services from your room phone and they will come to your room to assist you with your luggage.

Resort Shops

Fulton’s General Store is the charming gift shop at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside, conveniently located just off the main lobby near the Riverside Mill Food Court. Styled to reflect a quaint Southern general store, it offers a thoughtfully curated selection of Disney merchandise, resort-specific souvenirs, and items inspired by the romantic charm of the American South. Guests will find apparel, accessories, mugs, pins, and home décor featuring beloved Disney characters—especially Princess Tiana and themes from The Princess and the Frog. The shop also carries a variety of travel essentials, including snacks, toiletries, over-the-counter medications, and MagicBand+ accessories. For those wanting a taste of the South to bring home, Fulton’s often features regional treats like beignet mix and Southern-style seasonings. Open daily, it’s a convenient and immersive stop for guests looking to pick up vacation memories or everyday necessities.

Amenities

• Laundry Services: A 24-hour self-service laundry facility is available near Doubloon Lagoon Pool, behind Mardi Grogs.
• Parking: Complimentary parking is available to guests. Valet parking is available at a nightly rate. 
• “Hey Disney!”:  Stay up to date on daily park info, play games, make requests in your resort with your in-room virtual assistant. 
• Dry Cleaning Services: Offers dry cleaning and valet laundry services.

Lounges & Bars  

• River Roost Lounge: A cozy, Southern-style retreat located just off the main lobby. With plush seating, warm decor, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day in the parks. The lounge is best known for its lively evening entertainment from the legendary Yehaa Bob Jackson, who performs a high-energy piano comedy show several nights a week. Guests can enjoy Southern-inspired cocktails, beer, wine, and light bites while soaking in the riverside charm.
• Muddy Rivers Pool Bar: A relaxed, open-air spot located next to the Ol’ Man Island pool. Surrounded by lush, bayou-inspired landscaping, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a refreshing cocktail, frozen drink, beer, or wine. Light snacks like pretzels with cheese sauce and Cajun chicken salad are also available. With its laid-back vibe and scenic setting, Muddy Rivers captures the easygoing charm of the South in true Disney style.

Dining Options

​Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers an array of rustic & charming dining options that offer delicious Southern fare. 

Table Service

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a convenient on-site table-service option where guests can enjoy hearty Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. For quick meals, the resort also features a casual food court with a variety of options throughout the day. Guests looking for even more dining variety can easily walk or take a boat to the neighboring resort or use Disney’s complimentary transportation to explore the many table-service restaurants available across Walt Disney World. From upscale dining to family-friendly meals and character experiences, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Advance dining reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy travel times.

Quick Service

Disney World’s Quick Service restaurants provide a convenient and efficient dining option for guests on the go. Perfect for a quick bite between attractions, these restaurants offer diverse menus, from an afternoon sweet treat to an on theme small plate. 

No reservations are needed; simply order at the counter or on your My Disney Experience app and find a seat. Mobile Ordering through the My Disney Experience app lets you skip lines and customize your meal in advance. Quick Service options ensure you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the magic of Disney.

• ​​Riverside Mill Food Court: A charming quick-service location offering a wide selection of American classics and Southern-inspired favorites. Guests can choose from options like burgers, pizza, jambalaya, and customizable pasta dishes, with both grab-and-go and made-to-order meals available throughout the day. The food court is beautifully themed to resemble a historic cotton mill, complete with a working water wheel, adding to the resort’s immersive atmosphere. Open daily from early morning to well after park closings, it’s a convenient and satisfying dining option for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack.

• Boatwright’s Dining Hall: A cozy, rustic dining experience with a Louisiana shipyard theme, complete with wooden beams and a large boat hull suspended overhead. Serving dinner nightly, the restaurant features a menu full of Southern-inspired comfort food, including jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and a popular all-you-care-to-enjoy platter with ribs, smoked sausage, and Cajun chicken. Desserts like pecan pie cheesecake and bread pudding provide a perfect finish to the meal. With its inviting atmosphere and flavorful dishes, Boatwright’s offers a delightful taste of the Bayou for guests looking to enjoy a hearty, sit-down meal.

Recreation

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a variety of recreational activities, including a scenic boat ride along the Sassagoula River, a relaxing pool with a fun water play area, and complimentary bike rentals to explore the resort’s beautiful, bayou-inspired grounds.

• Swimming: At Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, guests can enjoy a variety of swimming options, including the themed Ol’ Man Island pool with a 95-foot waterslide, a kiddie pool, and a hot tub. There are also five additional quiet pools throughout the resort for a more peaceful swimming experience. The main pool has lifeguards on duty during select hours, and guests can take part in daily poolside activities. Guests staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside can also enjoy the Doubloon Lagoon pool at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, offering a fun waterslide and a vibrant, New Orleans-themed atmosphere.

• The Medicine Show Arcade: A large, fun-filled arcade featuring over 70 games, including classic pinball, air hockey, and video games. Located just off the main lobby, the arcade offers a great indoor entertainment option for all ages. Guests can use a rechargeable play card to enjoy games, and the arcade is open 24 hours a day, perfect for some late-night fun or a rainy day activity. Head on over to South Quarter Games at Port Orleans- French Quarter as well!
• Fishing: Guests can enjoy fishing at the Fishin’ Hole on Ol’ Man Island, a catch-and-release pond stocked with fish like bass and catfish. Cane poles and bait are provided, and the experience is perfect for families looking to relax. The Fishin’ Hole is open daily, with fishing available for a small fee. All fishing activities are catch-and-release, but guests can take photos of their catches.

• Horse Drawn Excursion: Guests can enjoy a peaceful horse-drawn carriage ride through the resort’s scenic pathways and along the Sassagoula River. These relaxing 25-minute rides depart from the Riverside Levee Marina and are a great way to take in the charm of both Riverside and the nearby French Quarter. Reservations are recommended, and rides may be canceled in bad weather.
• Campfire on de’ Bayou Campfire Activities: Guests can enjoy the Campfire on de’ Bayou each evening on Ol’ Man Island. This family-friendly activity includes complimentary marshmallows for roasting, with s’mores kits available for purchase. It’s a cozy way to unwind after a day in the parks, though the event is weather-dependent.
• Jogging: Enjoy a paved one mile path along the beautiful Sassagoula River.
• Movies Under the Stars: A complimentary outdoor movie night held on select evenings at the Magnolia South Pool Deck. Films typically begin around 8:30 PM, and guests are welcome to bring a towel or blanket. The event is weather-dependent and may be canceled in case of rain. 
• Bike rentals: Guests can enjoy a leisurely ride around the resort with bike rentals available at the Riverside Levee Marina. Both standard bicycles and fun, family-friendly Surrey bikes are offered, making it easy for individuals, couples, or groups to explore the scenic pathways that wind through the resort and along the Sassagoula River. It’s a relaxing way to take in the lush landscaping and charming atmosphere of Riverside. Helmets are provided, and rentals are first-come, first-served, so it’s best to plan ahead if biking is on your list of things to do.

• 

Transportation

​When staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside, guests have access to a variety of transportation options to explore the Walt Disney World Resort and beyond:

• Buses: Guests can take advantage of complimentary bus transportation to all four theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. The bus stop is conveniently located just outside the main lobby, with buses typically arriving every 20 minutes throughout the day.
• Water Taxi: Enjoy a scenic water taxi ride to Disney Springs, with departures from the dock behind the Sassagoula Steamboat Co. Building. The boat makes stops at both Port Orleans resorts and typically takes about 20 minutes to reach Disney Springs.

• Minnie Vans: Guests can utilize the Minnie Van™ service, a premium transportation option operated by Disney Cast Members.Accessible through the Lyft app, the service offers direct, point-to-point rides within Walt Disney World Resort, accommodating up to six passengers and including two child car seats. ​

How to get from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside to anywhere at Disney World

• Magic Kingdom – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Magic Kingdom. 
• Epcot – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Epcot. 
• Hollywood Studios – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Hollywood Studios.  
• Animal Kingdom – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Animal Kingdom. 
• Disney Springs – Take a water taxi down the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs. 

Resorts

Magic Kingdom Area Resorts – including Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, Fort Wilderness, Polynesian Village Resort, Port Orleans French Quarter, Saratoga Springs and Old Key West –

1. Take a bus to Magic Kingdom & use Magic Kingdom transportation to the resort choice.
   1. Bus to all resorts 
2. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from Port Orleans-Riverside to any Magic Kingdom area resort.
3. Walk to Port Orleans- French Quarter 
4. Take the Sassagoula River Water taxi to Disney Springs and take a bus to the desired resort.  

Epcot Area Resorts – including Yacht Club, Beach Club, Swan and Dolphin and Swan Reserve.

1. Take a bus to Epcot & use Epcot transportation to the resort choice
   1. Bus to all resorts 
2. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from Port Orleans-Riverside to any Epcot area resort.
3. Take the Sassagoula River Water taxi to Disney Springs and take a bus to the desired resort.  

Hollywood Studios Area Resorts – including Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach Resort, and Riviera Resort.

1. Take a bus to Hollywood Studios & use Hollywood Studios transportation to the resort choice
   1. Bus to all resorts 
   2. Take the Skyliner to all resorts 
2. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from Port Orleans-Riverside to any Hollywood Studios area resort.
3. Take the Sassagoula River Water taxi to Disney Springs and take a bus to the desired resort. 

Animal Kingdom Area Resorts – including Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Stars – Movie, Music and Sports and Coronado Springs

1. Take a bus to Animal Kingdom & use Animal Kingdom transportation to the resort choice
   1. Bus to all resorts 
2. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from Port Orleans- Riverside to any Animal Kingdom area resort.
3. Take the Sassagoula River Water taxi to Disney Springs and take a bus to the desired resort. 

Water Parks

• Typhoon Lagoon – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Typhoon Lagoon. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate. Note that you will take a resort bus to Disney Springs and transfer to the Typhoon Lagoon bus there. You can also take the Sassagoula River water taxi to Disney Springs to catch the bus.
• Blizzard Beach – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Blizzard Beach. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate. Note that you will take a resort bus to Animal Kingdom and transfer to the Blizzard Beach bus there. 

Mini Golf

• Winter Summerland – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Blizzard Beach. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate of Blizzard Beach.  Winter Summerland is next to Blizzard Beach.
• Fantasia Gardens – Take the bus to Hollywood Studios and walk to Fantasia Gardens. Fantasia Gardens is next to the Swan Reserve. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off at Fantasia Gardens.

Tips for Your Stay

1. Make Dining Reservations Early: You’ll want to make dining reservations at any Disney restaurants 60 days prior to arrival, especially for character dining experiences.  Table service dining does fill up and it’s not recommended to try to walk up to your favorite restaurant the day of.  Instructions on how to use the My Disney Experience app are here.
2. Use Port Orleans-French Quarter Amenities: When staying at Port Orleans Riverside, you can enjoy the best of both worlds by taking a short walk or boat ride to Port Orleans French Quarter to access additional amenities like their themed pool, Mickey shaped beignets, and Scat Cats Lounge.
3. Use Mobile Ordering: To save time and avoid lines, use the My Disney Experience app’s mobile ordering feature for quick-service meals.  Best tips on mobile ordering and some of our favorites can be found here.
4. Plan for Rainy Days: Pack ponchos or umbrellas, as Florida weather can be unpredictable. Fortunately, there are plenty of indoor activities at the resort to keep you entertained.
5. Use the Disney Transportation System: Take advantage of the complimentary Disney transportation options to access all the parks and Disney Springs with ease. Don’t forget to enjoy the Sassagoula River water taxi!
6. Preferred Rooms: Consider what area of the resort you’d like to be in and have your travel advisor make a request in your reservation. 

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside
Address & Phone Number

1251 Riverside Dr.
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-8514
(407) 934-6000

Conclusion

Staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a perfect blend of Southern charm, scenic beauty, and the warm hospitality Disney is known for. With its lush landscaping, tranquil river views, and a mix of rustic Alligator Bayou and elegant Magnolia Bend theming, Riverside provides a peaceful escape for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. From leisurely boat rides to Disney Springs to relaxing evenings by the campfire or pool, every detail contributes to a laid-back, immersive experience. Whether you’re enjoying a stroll along the Sassagoula River or settling in for a hearty Southern meal, Riverside is a serene and richly themed retreat in the heart of Walt Disney World.

Ready to book?! Request a complimentary, no-obligation quote from the Love of the Magic Vacations team here.