Port Orleans Riverside Moderate Resort Part two

The rate you are charged will vary depending on the time of year you visit and the view your room has. If you are an Annual Passholder or Florida Resident or a member of AAA, be sure to inquire about possible discounts when making your reservations.

The most expensive rate is for a water view room. This can be either a Sassagoula River view or a pool view. If you have a preference, be sure to indicate at the time you make your reservation, and again when you check in, that you prefer a "river view" or "pool view". Given the lush landscaping, most rooms have quite pleasant vistas. The lowest priced rooms may face a parking lot, or garden areas.

Also keep in mind that the rooms do not have private balconies or patios, or interior entrances. The windows overlook a public, outdoor walkway. So if you aren't planning to open your windows much or will be spending the majority of your time in the parks, it may not be a good value to pay for a water view room. Connecting doors between adjacent rooms allow friends and large families to easily visit each other. Be sure to ask for this option when making your reservation.

Are there smoking and nonsmoking rooms?

As of June 1, 2007, all Disney resorts and guest rooms are now smoke free. There are designated outdoor smoking areas. Check the resort map or with a Cast Member for locations.

What are the differences between Magnolia Bend and Alligator Bayou?

Magnolia Bend is themed as four 2- and 3-story mansion homes, reflecting the large plantation residences in Mississippi many decades ago. Here you'll find well kept lawns, wrought iron railings and trellises, crawling roses and an elegant motif. At any time you'd expect to see the Colonel and his wife greet you on the main lawn waiting to invite you in.

Another important feature to note about the mansions is the fact that you must cross the Sassagoula River bridges to get to the food court, gift shop and other main building features.

Alligator Bayou lodges are a more rustic, backwoods cottage setting, featuring 16 smaller two-story Cajun-style buildings with charmingly rustic wooden furniture and settings. In addition, the rooms in Alligator Bayou contain a trundle bed that will sleep a child bringing the room occupancy total to 5. The Trundle Bed is intended to accommodate children under 9; or persons under 5 feet tall. They are narrower than a conventional bed.

An important difference to note between the two sections are the lack of elevators in Alligator Bayou. If you are unwilling or unable to negotiate stairs but still prefer Alligator Bayou, be sure to inform the front desk at check-in, and they will do their best to accommodate you.

Though it rarely happens, it is suggested that if you find any aspect of your room to be inadequate, you contact the front desk and request nicely to be moved to a room that is what you wanted/expected. Disney is in the business of satisfying their guests, and they will almost always do everything in their power to make you happy.

Which are the most convenient buildings to the Resort center, pools, and bus stops?

In Magnolia Bend, Oak Manor is nearest to the Resort center, and is adjacent to one of the "quiet" pools. Magnolia Terrace is mentioned by many to be an ideal location, while others find Oak Manor to be a better choice.

In Alligator Bayou, buildings 14, 15 and 18 are closest to the resort center and are a short distance from a "quiet" pool. No room is more than a 4 minute walk from a bus stop see below. The main themed swimming area, Ol' Man Island, is located in the middle of the Resort. The closest buildings are Magnolia Terrace in Magnolia Bend and lodges 27 and 38 in Alligator Bayou. Unless you plan on spending a lot of time on Ol' Man Island, you are probably better off requesting a room closer to the Resort center/food court.

How do I keep from getting disoriented along the winding paths of Alligator Bayou?

In Alligator Bayou, look for gray concrete walkways. These run directly from the parking lot to the Sassagoula. The other colored paths will eventually get you where you are going, if you don't mind taking the scenic route! Also, there are signs at every junction, clearly pointing the way to wherever you need to go.

What is the best time to check in?

The busiest check-in time is generally noon to late afternoon. Earlier a.m. or late p.m. check-ins may be easier, but there is only limited likelihood of your room being ready earlier in the day, especially during peak seasons or when the Resort is near 100% occupancy (which we are told happens often). However, you can pre-register as early as 7 a.m.; your luggage will be stored, and you can obtain your resort ID cards. You can then return later in the day to obtain your room key. If your room is ready early they will let you in, though you shouldn't count on it being so. If desired, Bell Services, adjacent to the main entrance, will happily assist you with your luggage at check-in. The registration area of Port Orleans is certainly one of the most beautiful lobbies of the resorts at WDW and at Christmas is not to be missed.

Is there someplace to shop?

Fulton's General Store is located in the Resort commercial center, adjacent to the River Roost Lounge (was called Cotton Co-op Lounge). Fulton's (named after the famed steamboat inventor) carries a large assortment of postcards, souvenirs, over the counter pharmacy needs and convenience items. There's a bulk candy counter, a snack area with a limited selection of liquor, munchies, cold beverages, and toiletries. The clothing section has been enlarged over the last few years and it's surprising how many choices you have here. You can also find a newsstand, Disney character and Resort themed merchandise, and "country"-style clothing and knickknacks. We've found that many of the most popular Disney souvenirs including figurines, photo frames, pens/pencils and watches can be found here. Though you cannot benefit from discounts found at Downtown Disney using Annual passes and American Express cards, the pricing is identical to that found in the parks.

Posted hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 pm, but these do change from time to time, so you'll want to confirm the current schedule when you check-in. A sign outside the entrance advises contacting the front desk for emergency needs after store hours.