Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is one-half of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort and a longtime favorite of mine. Sister property Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is nextdoor, but more on that later. The theming of this moderate resort will transport you straight to New Orleans, LA. French Quarter reopened back in October, and it was an easy choice for this visit.
The attention to detail is extraordinary. Touches like wrought iron railings on pastel-hued buildings, lamp posts, hitching posts, and magnolia trees lining the Sassagoula River embody the authentic feel of New Orleans without being overdone.
The resort is much more compact than some of the other Disney properties, which is a huge bonus when traveling with littles. And which kid could resist the Mardis Gras-themed pool with King Neptune sitting astride Scale, a giant sea serpent? For non-swimmers, the splash pad is equally inviting.
At any given time we noticed families on the playground in the early morning hours as well as late at night. Such a neat feature to have.
Bestie M and I stayed in a Garden View Room. The theming carries over in here too. The room was spacious and comfortable. The bathroom has a split design with the shower/tub combo and toilet in a room, and double sinks just outside. So one of us could shower, while the other did hair and makeup. For extra privacy, a curtain separates the entire bathroom area from the bedroom.
There are multiple dining options here. One of the big draws for us was beignets for breakfast every morning at Scat Cat’s Club Cafe. YUM! We reasoned walking 18-20K miles/day balanced this. 😉
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory is the dining option on property. This Quick Service restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cuisine is American fare and is known for its jambalaya and gumbo.
There is also Mardi Grogs Pool Bar, which serves sandwiches and specially-themed cocktails.
There are several modes of transportation. There is the River Cruise to Disney Springs and sister property Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. A walking path to Riverside. And of course the Disney Bus System.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside recreates the downhome feel of the Louisiana Bayou. If time permits, hop over to enjoy a meal at Boatwright’s Dining Hall or go for a surrey bike ride.
Back to French Quarter. For your non-park days, or for relaxation after a day in the parks, take advantage of some of the amenities provided. Activities include Movies Under the Stars, poolside activities, arts and crafts for the littles, trivia night for the adults, and an arcade the teen would never leave.
Horse-drawn Carriage Rides are back and are especially perfect for romantic evenings or proposals. Hint, hint…
Have an upcoming visit? Here are five ways to get in the Spirit of Mardis Gras at Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts:
- Listen to jazz music at Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge – French Quarter
- Eat beignets at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Create your own Mardi Gras bicycle parade
- Sample savory southern cooking at Boatwright’s Dining Hall – Riverside
- Enjoy the scenery along the Sassagoula River
Stay tuned for my latest Disney dining review!
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts / Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter / Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and lover of all things Disney, I would be honored for the opportunity to plan your visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth! Email ebony@familytraveladventuresllc.com to learn more.
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