Disney’s Port Orleans Resort French Quarter

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is a fan-favorite moderate resort for a reason. It offers the charm and romance of New Orleans with a dose of Disney magic. From its cobblestone streets and wrought-iron balconies to the soothing jazz music playing throughout the grounds, this resort is perfect for guests looking for a boutique-style experience with all the perks of staying on Disney property. It’s a smaller resort, which means fewer crowds, a quieter atmosphere, and shorter walks to everything. Plus, it’s the only Disney resort where you can enjoy hot, fresh beignets—need we say more?

Where is Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter located?

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is located in the Disney Springs Resort Area, right along the Sassagoula River. Its location provides convenient boat transportation to Disney Springs and is just a short bus ride away from all four theme parks. The lush landscaping and riverside setting make it feel like a hidden gem tucked away from the hustle and bustle.

What is the difference between Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Riverside?

While both are part of the Port Orleans Resort complex, French Quarter and Riverside have distinct themes and vibes. French Quarter is smaller, more intimate, and themed after the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, complete with gas lamps and jazz influences. Riverside, on the other hand, is larger and divided into two areas: Alligator Bayou (more rustic and wooded) and Magnolia Bend (inspired by Southern mansions). Riverside offers a table-service restaurant and more recreational activities, while French Quarter boasts a quieter ambiance and those delicious beignets.

Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter vs. Riverside

If you’re trying to decide between the two, we almost always recommend French Quarter—and it usually comes down to convenience.

Unlike Riverside, which has multiple internal bus stops, French Quarter is compact enough to only need one, located right in front of the main lobby. That means less waiting and quicker transportation to and from the parks, especially during busy times.

It’s one of the top reasons guests find French Quarter to be more relaxed and low-stress compared to some of the larger moderate resorts.

Who would enjoy staying at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

This resort is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families who appreciate a manageable resort size, and guests who enjoy unique theming and ambiance. It’s also a great choice for repeat visitors who want a change from the busier resorts but still want Disney perks like early park entry and complimentary transportation.

What Is the Difference Between Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts?

Walt Disney World offers three categories of resort hotels—Value, Moderate, and Deluxe—each with its own blend of price, amenities, and location perks. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand where Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter fits in:

• Value Resorts: Budget-friendly with big, playful theming. Rooms are smaller and often feature motel-style buildings with exterior-facing doors. Value resorts offer large pools, food courts, and either bus or Skyliner access to the parks.
• Moderate Resorts: A step up in both space and atmosphere. Rooms are a bit larger, pools often include waterslides, and the grounds tend to be more scenic and peaceful. Dining options expand beyond quick service, and you still typically find exterior room access (motel-style).
• Deluxe Resorts: High-end accommodations with interior corridors, signature dining, spas, and prime locations—often within walking distance or a quick monorail ride to at least one park. These resorts deliver top-tier comfort and convenience.

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter falls squarely in the Moderate category—but many guests feel it punches above its weight thanks to its charming theme, smaller footprint (read: no long walks to your room!), and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a fantastic pick for travelers who want a balance of value and comfort without giving up Disney magic.

Room Types at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

The resort offers standard rooms that sleep up to four guests with either two queen beds or one king bed. Some rooms offer views of the garden, river, pool, or parking area. Rooms include mini-refrigerators, coffee makers, and in-room safes. Accessible rooms and connecting rooms are also available upon request.

Are there rooms to avoid at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

While the resort’s small size means fewer “bad” room locations, rooms near the parking lot or facing the busier pool area may be less desirable due to noise or lack of a scenic view. If quiet and ambiance are a priority, request a river view or a corner room on an upper floor.

Best Restaurants at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Though French Quarter doesn’t have a table-service restaurant, it makes up for it with unique and flavorful quick-service options:

• Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory – The main quick-service dining location with a variety of New Orleans-inspired dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, po’ boys, shrimp and grits, and of course, Mickey-shaped beignets. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here.
• Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge – A cozy spot with live jazz music on select evenings and an excellent drink menu.
• Scat Cat’s Club – Café – Open in the mornings for fresh beignets, including specialty options like the boozy beignet trio.

Guests can also walk to Port Orleans – Riverside to enjoy table-service dining at Boatwright’s Dining Hall, a Southern-inspired restaurant.

Pools and Recreation at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

The resort’s main pool, Doubloon Lagoon, features a vibrant Mardi Gras theme with a sea serpent waterslide, complete with King Neptune riding the head. There’s also a splash area for kids, a hot tub, and plenty of loungers.

Additional recreation includes:

• Horse-drawn carriage rides (departing from Riverside)
• Bike and surrey bike rentals
• Playground
• Movies Under the Stars
• Campfire activities
• Walking/jogging paths along the river

Shopping at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Jackson Square Gifts & Desires is the resort’s main gift shop. It offers Disney merchandise, resort-specific souvenirs, snacks, beverages, and a small selection of travel essentials. It’s also where you’ll find Port Orleans-themed apparel and the beloved refillable mugs.

FAQ’s About Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

What makes Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter a good moderate resort pick?

Its compact size, charming theme, boat access to Disney Springs, and quieter atmosphere make it a standout moderate resort.

Is Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter a moderate resort?

Yes, it’s classified as a moderate resort, offering a blend of enhanced amenities and value pricing.

How much does it cost to stay at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

Rates typically range from $250 to $400+ per night depending on the season, room type, and current promotions.

What is the best room location at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

River view or garden view rooms away from the main pool area tend to be the most peaceful. Buildings 4 and 5 offer quick access to the lobby and food court.

Can I visit Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter if I’m not staying there?

Yes! Anyone is welcome to visit the resort, enjoy the beignets, explore the grounds, or take a boat to Disney Springs.

Does Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter have a good pool?

Yes, the Mardi Gras-themed Doubloon Lagoon is one of the most fun and colorful pools among moderate resorts, complete with a whimsical waterslide.

Can I go to the pool if I’m not staying at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

No, Disney resort pools are reserved for guests staying at that specific resort.

Is Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter on the Skyliner?

No, the Skyliner does not service this resort. Transportation is via bus or boat to Disney Springs.

Can you see fireworks from Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

No, fireworks are not visible from this resort due to its location and surrounding trees.

What park is Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter closest to?

Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are the closest parks, both accessible by a short bus ride.

Does Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter offer transportation to the parks?

Yes, bus service is available to all four theme parks and water parks, and boat service is available to Disney Springs.

Is there a fitness center at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter?

No, but guests are welcome to use the fitness center at the nearby Riverside resort.

Ready to plan your trip to Walt Disney World?

Looking for the right resort for your Disney vacation? At Where To Go Travel Co, my goal is to make your dream vacation as seamless and stress-free as possible, from start to finish. Let me help you pick the best resort, secure your park tickets, dining, and more.