A Moderate Resort with Deluxe Heart
With more than 25 hotels at Walt Disney World, it is easy to get distracted by the monorail loop or the skyliner hubs. However, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside continues to prove why it is the ultimate sleeper hit for families. As the second-largest hotel on property with over 2,000 rooms, it offers a sense of scale and variety that many other resorts simply cannot match. Whether you are looking for the stately elegance of Magnolia Bend or the rugged charm of Alligator Bayou, this resort manages to feel intimate despite its size.
The 2027 Refurbishment Roadmap
The big news for Riverside involves a massive room refurbishment project that has recently been extended through August 2027. While the Magnolia Bend mansions have seen significant updates already, the project is moving in phases across the entire resort. These updates are more than just a fresh coat of paint. Guests can expect a comprehensive “hard goods” refurbishment, meaning everything from flooring to furniture is getting a modern refresh while maintaining the Southern charm the resort is known for. The new Magnolia Bend rooms already feature beautiful murals of the bayou and subtle nods to The Princess and the Frog, creating a cohesive story throughout the space.
Alligator Bayou: Rustic Meets High-Tech
Even if you do not end up in a newly refurbished room, the classic Alligator Bayou section remains a fan favorite. These rooms offer a unique layout with two beds and a Murphy Bed bench, making them a top choice for families of five. The attention to detail here is incredible, featuring:
- Washboard details and faux wood-paneled showers in the bathrooms.
- Princess and the Frog-inspired shower curtains that bring a touch of royalty to the swamp.
- Modern tech like the “Hey Disney” voice assistant and an abundance of outlets for all your devices.
Cool Kids Summer and Family Perks
For those visiting during the Cool Kids Summer event in 2026, Riverside is pulling out all the stops for families with young children. This limited-time celebration, running through September 8, 2026, transforms the resort experience. Guests can find special room setups featuring Bluey and Bingo, along with high-demand childcare amenities that make traveling with toddlers much easier. You can request items such as cribs, bottle warmers, infant bathtubs, and nightlights to be ready in your room upon arrival. This level of service is usually reserved for higher-tier resorts, but it is currently a hallmark of the Riverside summer experience.
Our Take: The Riverside Advantage
Why should you choose Riverside over other Moderates like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort? It comes down to the atmosphere and the Sassagoula Boats. While other resorts rely heavily on buses or the Skyliner, Riverside offers a peaceful boat ride to Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs, and Old Key West. These boats generally operate from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, providing a scenic and relaxing alternative to the standard Disney transportation. For families who want a vacation that feels like a true getaway from the park crowds, Port Orleans Riverside remains the gold standard in the Moderate category.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.