Down by the River: Port Orleans Riverside

Nestled within the Walt Disney World Complex you can find a little bit of the bayou. New Orleans easy living is abound. Antebellum styled buildings mixed with a riverboat theme and beautiful waterways running through put you in a Louisiana frame of mind. Come along with us as we explore Port Orleans Riverside a little jewel among the trees.

You are greeted by friendly cast members who are eager to put you in that Louisiana frame of mind y'all!

The ornate registration lobby is bright and inviting and the staff ushers you in to take care of your every need.

Port Orleans Riverside is considered a moderate resort with rooms running from the $180's to $250's a night. The rooms are nestled back on the property along the Sassagoula River in grand tradition. 

Buildings with that Southern Louisiana flair invite you to your room to relax and enjoy your vacation.

This quaint bridge will take you from the main concourse to the pool and rooms.

The Riverside Mill Food Co. from across the river.

There are two restaurants at Riverside - Boatwright's Dining Hall and Riverside Mill Food Company. If you make reservations at Boatwright's you can expect scrumptious Louisiana fare like Jambalaya and Crawfish Etouffee. Of course you'll find steak and chicken but you won't to miss those Cajun tastes.

The Boatwright's wooden sculpture that hangs over the restaurant.

For a more moderate price you can enjoy Riverside Mill Food Company. This restaurant is food court style and caters to families who have plenty of hungry mouths to feed. Family style eating with a family style price. Average $14.99/per.  Look for a Bakery, Grill, Pizza, Pasta, Salads, a Carving Station and other Specialties.  Dine next to the water wheel which actually powers a working cotton press.

Family style seating.

The large water wheel which actually powers a cotton press.

There are two bars at Riverside if you prefer a beverage after a long day at the parks. Muddy Rivers is a poolside bar and River Roost is located just outside of the lobby.

Enjoy this tucked away bar and lounge area called River Roost. 

Muddy Rivers Pool Bar offers full bar fare.

There are 5 leisure pools at Riverside ranging from the largest central pool to quiet pools closer to your room.  Children can enjoy the pool with its wooden bridges and water slides and mom and dad can relax poolside with a beverage that includes a little umbrella and a fruit slice!

5 leisure pools dot the property of Port Orleans Riverside.

There is plenty of outdoor recreation to be had at Riverside. Since the resort is nestled along the Sassagoula River there are plenty of water activities. Everything from canoes, kayaks, paddle boats to pontoon and mini-powerboats.

The boat docks are where you can find the rentals of your choice from a bass boat excursion to the mini-powerboats. You can also catch a ride to Downtown Disney and the French Quarter from this dock.

Don't forget you can rent bikes and surrey bikes to ride along the beautiful riverside walks and trails.

Port Orleans Riverside is a relaxing getaway for a perfect family vacation. Take yourself away to the laid back Louisiana way of life. Fishing in the river, lounging in the pool, eating the fabulous New Orleans flavors and it's almost as if you can hear the horn of a riverboat off in the distance.