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I’m so excited to finally share a Walt Disney World Resort that holds a very special place in our hearts. In a way, it started it all. This resort sealed the deal for us on having a lifetime love of visiting the parks together and participating in RunDisney events all the way back in 2016.
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When Mark and I packed up our lives and moved from Ohio to Florida in 2015, I hoped Disney World would become a big part of our world. Still, I didn’t know the extent because I grew up on Disney and visited the parks once when I was seven and again when I was 20. Mark had never set foot on Disney property before, and I wasn’t sure how he would like it.
The key to his heart is Star Wars, so when Disney acquired the Star Wars and Marvel Universe, I knew I had a chance of him becoming a bigger fan. Then Disney did an incredible thing for my Star Wars loving runner husband: they announced the Inaugural RunDisney Star Wars Darkside Weekend for April 2016, and Mark signed up immediately. The rest is history!
Our very first trip to Disney together was a race-cation, and it didn’t include going to any of the parks, but it’s one of our favorite memories. We stayed at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter and loved it. We have since visited a couple more times, and each time we return, it feels like home, and we always wish we’d stay longer.
A Magical Stay at Port Orleans French Quarter Resort
Nestled along the banks of the Sassagoula River, Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort is a charming escape to the heart of New Orleans. With its cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, and lush gardens, this Moderate Resort captures the essence of the Big Easy while providing guests with all the magic and convenience of staying at a Disney property. It also has a sister hotel located next door: Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. Whether you’re visiting for the fantastic dining, top-notch amenities, or a RunDisney weekend, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Port Orleans French Quarter stay.
The Lobby sets the tone
The lobby features high ceilings, wrought-iron accents, and ornate chandeliers that exude a sense of grandeur. The architectural details are reminiscent of the classic buildings found in New Orleans’ French Quarter, with intricate moldings and rich colors adding to the overall magical ambiance. True to the spirit of New Orleans, the lobby is adorned with Mardi Gras-themed decorations, including colorful beads, masks, and festive banners.
Soft jazz music plays in the background of the entire resort, enhancing the overall vibe and creating a soothing and relaxing environment. The melodies are a perfect complement to the New Orleans theme and set the tone for your stay.
Dining Options at French Quarter
The vibe of this resort is so fun and relaxed, and the food and amenities of Port Orleans French Quarter really set it apart from all the others.
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory
This quick-service restaurant offers a variety of mouthwatering options that bring the flavors of New Orleans to your plate. Indulge in classic dishes like beignets, jambalaya, and po’boys.
Scat Cat’s Club
Head to Scat Cat’s Club for a relaxed evening. Enjoy live jazz music and sip on signature cocktails. The delectable beignets available here are perfect for a late-night treat.
Poolside Dining
The Mardi Grogs pool bar offers light snacks and refreshing beverages to keep you cool and satiated while you enjoy a day by the pool. Try one of their specialty frozen drinks for an authentic taste of the tropics.
French Quarter Amenities
Doubloon Lagoon
Dive into fun at the Doubloon Lagoon pool, with a giant sea serpent water slide and a hot tub. The pool area is surrounded by lush greenery, providing plenty of space for relaxation and play.
Jogging Trail
Take advantage of the scenic jogging trail that winds along the Sassagoula River. This peaceful path is perfect for morning runs or evening strolls and offers beautiful views of the resort and the river. Plus you can easily walk to the Riverside Resort for their pool, dining, and amenities too!
Children’s Activities
Kids will love the daily activities offered at the resort, including crafts, games, and movie nights. There’s also a playground where little ones can burn off some energy.
Boat Transportation
One of the highlights of staying at Port Orleans French Quarter is the complimentary boat service to Disney Springs. The leisurely boat ride is a wonderful way to travel, offering lovely views and a relaxing journey to the biggest Disney shopping, dining, and entertainment hub.
Bus Service
Disney’s bus transportation provides convenient access to all the theme parks, water parks, and other Disney Resort areas. The buses run regularly, ensuring you can easily reach your destination. This is one of the best resorts to stay for a RunDisney weekend and that’s because it’s a smaller resort with ONE bus stop!
Jackson Square Gifts & Desires
This charming shop offers a variety of Disney merchandise, resort-specific souvenirs, and essentials you might need during your stay. From Mickey ears to snacks and beverages, you’ll find everything you need to make your visit magical.
Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort
The rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort offer a delightful blend of comfort, charm, and convenience. Each room is designed to reflect the resort’s New Orleans theme, with newly updated Princess and the Frog details mixed in throughout.
Room Types and Configurations
- Standard Rooms: These rooms offer views of the garden, courtyard, or parking areas. They typically feature two queen beds or one king bed and can accommodate up to four guests.
- Water View Rooms: These rooms provide scenic views of the Sassagoula River or the resort’s pool area. Like the standard rooms, they come with either two queen beds or one king bed.
- Garden View Rooms: These rooms overlook the resort’s beautifully landscaped gardens. They have two queen beds or one king bed.
- King Bed Rooms: These rooms feature a single king bed and are ideal for couples or solo travelers. They offer views of the garden, courtyard, or parking areas.
We typically choose a standard room and have lucked out with garden and water view rooms on the first floor each time. The rooms are peaceful and have a grand ambiance, and the housekeeping staff always leaves little surprises for the guests. I have never seen that in any of the other value or moderate hotels we have stayed in.
Our Room Features
-Two Queen beds
-Seating area for two
-Mini-fridge
-Complimentary Wi-Fi
-Flat-screen TV with Disney programming
-In-room safe
-Hairdryer
-Iron and ironing board
-Shower/tub combo with Shampoo, Conditioner, and my favorite sea salt body wash
In my opinion, these rooms are ideal for couples, or a couple with one or two very young kids. However, accommodating anything more than that would feel cramped. Connecting rooms are available upon request for larger groups, another great option for race weekends.
RunDisney Weekends
Staying at Port Orleans French Quarter during a RunDisney weekend is an excellent choice for race participants. The resort’s proximity to the race events and the tranquil environment make it an ideal spot to rest and recover. The resort also offers transportation to the race events, ensuring you arrive on time and stress-free. They only have one bus pick up spot, which is great for saving time and extra steps on your feet.
Post-Race
After crossing the finish line, unwind at the Doubloon Lagoon pool or treat yourself to a celebratory meal at Scat Cat’s Club. The serene setting of the resort provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection on your achievement. Another huge perk to this resort is the hot tub, which you won’t find at the Value Resorts during Race Weekends.
French Quarter is a Must-Stay
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort is a hidden gem that combines New Orleans’s charm with Disney’s magic. This resort offers something for everyone with its delightful dining options, fantastic amenities, convenient transportation, and unique experiences for RunDisney weekends. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, a Port Orleans French Quarter stay is a must do!
This was the first Disney on-property resort that I stayed at. We didn’t spend much time there, as it was all about hitting the parks bright and early. I need to go back, especially now with the theme of the Princess and the Frog.