On-Site Magical Disney Stays: Port Orleans French Quarter
- paigelandrum
- Aug 5
- 4 min read
Contributed by:
Paige Landrum
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is a moderate level resort at Walt Disney World. It’s the smallest of all the moderate resorts, and that’s actually one of its greatest perks. With a compact layout, quiet atmosphere, and unique theming, French Quarter is truly like a breath of fresh air. Located just a short but scenic boat ride away from Disney Springs, this resort blends convenience with charm, and is perfect for families looking for a low-key place to relax after a day in the parks.
Resort Theming
French Quarter is inspired by the historic New Orleans district. With cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, and gas-style lanterns, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a quaint southern neighborhood. The resort grounds are colorful with neatly trimmed hedges, fountains tucked into courtyards, and plenty of (shaded) walkways to explore.
It’s also one of the most walkable resorts on property. Everything from the lobby and pool to the buses and dining, is just a short stroll away. This makes it especially appealing for families with toddlers, where long walks back to the room aren’t ideal after a big day.
You’ll still get access to some of the fun over at Port Orleans Riverside too, since the two resorts are sister properties and share amenities. That includes the boat to Disney Springs, and the ability to explore both properties during your stay. You can read more about why we love Riverside here.
Room Types
Rooms at French Quarter follow a similar layout to other moderate resorts and can accommodate up to 4 guests, with two queen beds or one king bed. Some rooms offer views of the garden, pool, or river. The decor is simple but tasteful, with nods to Mardi Gras and a touch of jazz flair, without being over-the-top. Note that families of five or more will need to get two rooms if this is your chosen property.
While French Quarter doesn’t offer specialty rooms like Riverside’s Royal Guest Rooms, what it lacks in themed rooms it makes up for in convenience. Every room on the property is relatively close to the main building and amenities.
If you're looking for a quiet stay with less walking and easy access to Disney Springs, French Quarter is the best pick in the moderate category.
Resort Facts: Dining, Pools, Transportation
Dining:
French Quarter has a smaller dining setup, but it covers the basics well.
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory: This is the quick service location on property, and it has that New Orleans flair. You’ll find classics like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, and of course, beignets. These Mickey-shaped beignets are one of the big draws to this resort, and they even come with seasonal flavor options (and dipping sauces!).
Scat Cat’s Club – Café & Lounge: Right next door to the food court is Scat Cat’s Lounge, which serves drinks and small bites in the evening. The café is open during the day for coffee and beignets to-go, which is handy if you're heading out to the parks early.
Pro Tip: They have gluten free beignets AND adults only beignet options to try.
Guests are also welcome to head over to Port Orleans Riverside for additional dining options, including Boatwright's Dining Hall, or hop on the boat to Disney Springs for even more variety.
Pools:
The feature pool at French Quarter is themed after a Mardi Gras celebration, complete with a sea serpent slide and alligator jazz band statues. The pool is vibrant and playful, and tends to be a hit with young kids without feeling overwhelming in size.
A hot tub and splash pad area are also available, making this a great pool for families with younger kids. While French Quarter does not have quiet pools due to its size, guests are welcome to use the leisure pools over at Riverside if they're looking for something a little more low-key.
Transportation:
French Quarter offers complimentary bus transportation to all four theme parks and water parks. Since the resort is smaller, there’s only one bus stop, which means no internal loops like some of the larger resorts (this is a win in our book!).
The boat to Disney Springs via the Sassagoula River is one of the most scenic and relaxing rides on property, and a fan favorite for my kids. It’s a peaceful way to spend an evening or a great option for a rest day outing.
Resort Amenities
Even though it’s the smallest moderate resort, French Quarter still offers great family-friendly extras:
Campfire activities and marshmallow roasting (nightly);
Movies Under the Stars;
Playground for little ones;
Jogging trail along the Sassagoula River;
Arcade;
Live music some nights at Scat Cat’s Lounge; and
Access to Riverside’s bike rentals, fishing, and carriage rides.
Because French Quarter is more compact and laid-back, it’s an ideal resort to truly unplug. It's easy to spend more downtime here simply because it’s so peaceful and easy to navigate.
What Extras Make This Resort Special?
French Quarter is the only resort at Walt Disney World that serves Mickey-shaped beignets. Between the festive pool area, the riverside views, and the quiet charm, this resort feels like a step off the beaten path, and for my family, that’s exactly what makes it feel like a true vacation.
It’s also one of the most stroller-friendly resorts due to the smaller footprint and simple layout. That’s something worth considering when you’re pushing a double stroller after a long park day (trust me, I know).
This would be the ideal resort for you if…
You want a quieter, more compact resort with classic Disney charm and New Orleans flavor. If your family values quiet charm and relaxing pool time, French Quarter might be the perfect fit.
Ready to start planning your stay at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter? Click here to get started with an AMAAB Travel Advisor, who can help find the perfect resort for you!
AMAAB Disney Travel Advisor & Toddler Mom
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