Answering Your Questions about Port Orleans – French Quarter
MickeyBlog understands that you have a lot of questions about Disney resorts. We’re always happy to provide information about the place where you will spend your next vacation. Here are answers to the 12 most popular questions about Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter.
Where Is the Resort?
On the hotel’s official page, Disney indicates that it’s a Disney Springs Resort Area property. However, Google calculates its driving distance to all four theme parks as 13 minutes or less.
In other words, Imagineers have positioned this hotel in a centrally located part of the Disney campus. Google believes that only a couple of minutes separates the driving distance from its closest park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to its furthest, Magic Kingdom.
What Is the Theme?
The theme is right there in the name. This property represents Disney’s tribute to New Orleans. The Big Easy’s style drives many of the stylistic decisions on the hotel grounds.
You’ll notice the Fleur de Lis symbol in many places, along with Mardi Gras masks and a doorman wearing an outlandish costume. You’ll feel like you’re in Louisiana as you explore the hotel campus and especially the lobby of this resort.
How Is This Resort Different from Riverside?
The theming is the main thing. As a bit of trivia, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort opened in 1991 as a tribute to the French Quarter. In the same region, Imagineers constructed Disney’s Dixie Landings, a tribute to the stunning architecture of the antebellum south.
Dixie Landings later became Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside. Meanwhile, the other side became the French Quarter, a smaller and more intimate property. However, the resorts do share transportation, as we’ll discuss in a bit. So, all of the amenities at both resorts are available to guests of either one.
What Room Types Are There?
Disney classifies the room types here by view. You’ll have your choice of Standard View, Pool View, or River View. Standard is obviously the least expensive option.
With Pool View, your room overlooks the pool area, which is quite extensive. River View provides a scenic backdrop wherein you can watch boats sail down the waterway. Of course, the campus is so beautiful that even Standard rooms often overlook gardens and other lovely scenery.
The hotel also has one quirk in its booking system. When you want a King bed in your room, you must schedule it in advance. The safest strategy is to contact a MickeyTravels agent. These professionals know the answers to all your questions and can ensure that you’re getting the room type that you want at the price you need.
When Was the Resort Refurbished?
One of the reasons why you should always stay at Disney properties is the company’s respect for you as a customer. Disney upgrades rooms regularly to keep them fresh and classy. Some room refurbishments are minor ones, while others change the look and style entirely.
Disney describes the modest refurbs as soft goods changes. French Quarter underwent one of these in 2018. So, a modest refresh has happened recently.
Does French Quarter Have Elevators?
YES! Over the years, guests have experienced some confusion over this, and I’m never clear as to why. In fact, this hotel splits into several buildings, all of which have elevators. So, it can accommodate guests with any physical needs or just tired park visitors who don’t want to take the stairs.
Still, I should add that these buildings are the opposite of skyscrapers. They’re only three floors. So, those who are physically able may prefer to take the stairs. In my experience, many people do this, as I rarely have to wait for an elevator.
Does the Resort Have Adjoining Rooms?
YES AGAIN! Connecting rooms are available at the resort. However, Disney doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get one. You should request an adjoining room when you book your hotel room…or allow a MickeyTravels agent to do it for you. Then, ask again when you check in. Occasionally, you won’t get your request the first day, but the kind cast members working at the front desk might have something available later in your hotel stay.
Are There Restaurants at the Hotel?
The answer to this question is yes at any official Disney resort in Orlando. Disney wants its guests to stay at the hotel and eat when possible. It reduces park traffic and gives people a more convenient way to dine.
The options at French Quarter are a Quick Service restaurant, two bars, and room service. The eatery is Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, which serves delicious Cajun cuisine, including Gumbo and Jambalaya. Scat Cat’s Club plays jazz music and serves a few entrees along with its southern-style mixed drinks. And Mardi Grogs is one of the best pool bars at Walt Disney World.
How Are the Beignets?
I LOVE this question. If you’re asking it, you’re already getting into the spirit of the French Quarter. Disney always emphasizes its theming, and I can assure you that they would never disappoint on this front. The hotel celebrates the glory of New Orleans. They’d have to shut the place down if the beignets weren’t good.
Guests have their choice of these sweet treats morning, noon, or night, as they’re even available on the breakfast menu. Eat all the beignets that you want, my friends! You’re in Disney’s version of the French Quarter, after all!
How Is the Pool?
I’m a firm believer that Doubloon Lagoon is one of the best Disney pools in the world. I especially love the water slide, wherein you ride down a sea serpent’s body. Also, the size of the pool allows swimmers to stretch out rather than feel confined to one area.
Importantly, Disney keeps the temperature at a cozy 82 degrees, the perfect climate to swim comfortably for as long as you want.
What Is the TripAdvisor Score?
TripAdvisor voters generally think highly of all official Disney resorts, as they should. French Quarter is no exception here, as it receives a scintillating score of 4.5 out of 5. That’s after more than 6,000 reviews. So, you can trust the overall opinion as unbiased and fair.
On a personal note, I’ve given the hotel the highest possible grade on TripAdvisor. French Quarter is my favorite of all Moderate Tier resorts.
Which Transportation Is Available?
You’ll primarily take the buses at French Quarter. It’s the only free transportation option to and from the theme parks. However, a boat will transport guests to and from Disney Springs. The Sassagoula River Cruise is one of the most relaxing, serene boat rides you’ll ever take.
Also, remember that you can always grab a Minnie Van, presuming that you don’t mind the price. Similarly, ride-sharing services are readily available at the hotel.
Headline Image: BestDay.com