Mouse Extra

Let’s take a minute and talk about the moderate resort widely regarded as the best at Walt Disney World; Port Orleans French Quarter.  Within this tear of resorts on property, nothing beats it.

Set in old New Orleans, the resort is perfectly laid out.  Unlike some of the gigantic, sprawling properties that have been built at Disney World, this one is intimate and small, yet very fun.  You are never too far from the pool, buses, food court, or lobby.  There is even a wonderful boat launch that takes you to Downtown Disney that’s never too far from your room.

The theme is done to perfection at Port Orleans French Quarter.  The wonderful Mardi Gras inspired decorations, buildings, street signs and horticulture all blend perfectly into each other for a very immersive experience.  The paths and trim are delivered with a look that makes you think they’ve been there since Napoleonic years, but without the rust.  As a tribute to the real thing, this resort does an authentic job.

The rooms are similar to other moderate resorts, but these are just a touch more inviting.  The dual sinks and wonderfully dark furniture add an element of class to this resort.  There are Standard View rooms, code for “asphalt view”, along with garden views and water views.  Some of the water view rooms are situated along the Sassagoula River.  You pay more for views of the river, but it is a very nice touch and delivers probably the most romantic room in all the moderate resorts.

As far as amenities go, the French Quarter is adequate.  There is a food court called the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, but no sit down restaurant anymore, as it closed a few years back.  There is, however a nice little bar called Scat Cat’s that can be lots of fun.  There is only one bus stop, which is never far away, but you do share it with the Port Orleans Riverside so it can get crowded.  As I mentioned before, however, there is a great little boat launch that takes you to Downtown Disney.  The ride is a nice one, taking you by the old Treehouse Villas.  There’s also a nice pool, with a fun slide for the little ones, and an accompanying pool bar.

Of all the moderate resorts, I find Port Orleans French Quarter to be my first choice.  What sets Disney resorts apart from the rest, to me at least, is the immersive themes.  This resort accomplishes that better than any other moderate and even gets close to the level of some deluxe resorts.