Port Orleans Riverside Resort: Where Southern Charm Meets Disney Magic

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Sassagoula River in Walt Disney World Resort, Port Orleans Riverside Resort stands as a charming testament to the harmonious fusion of Disney enchantment and Southern elegance. This idyllic resort offers guests a delightful escape from the ordinary, inviting them to experience a world where moss-draped oak trees, antebellum mansions, and Disney’s signature magic converge.

Upon entering Port Orleans Riverside, guests are immediately greeted by the warm embrace of Southern hospitality. The resort is divided into two distinct sections: Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend. Alligator Bayou pays homage to the rustic charm of rural Louisiana, with its cozy lodges, fishing cabins, and intricate woodwork. In contrast, Magnolia Bend evokes the opulence of Southern plantation life, featuring stately mansions with grand facades and manicured gardens.

The intricate theming extends to every nook and cranny of the resort, from the cobblestone streets to the wrought-iron fences. The Sassagoula River, which winds its way through the property, provides a scenic backdrop that enhances the overall ambiance.

Port Orleans Riverside offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and group sizes. From cozy rooms in the Alligator Bayou lodges to spacious suites in Magnolia Bend, guests can find the perfect retreat after a day of Disney adventures. The intricate details within the rooms, such as ornate headboards and themed accents, continue the resort’s commitment to immersive storytelling.

The resort boasts an array of recreational activities that cater to guests of all ages. The Ol’ Man Island pool area is a focal point, featuring a rustic swimming hole, water slides, and a hot tub. For a more tranquil experience, guests can explore the serene courtyards, rent bicycles, or take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront.

Dining at Port Orleans Riverside is a culinary journey that captures the essence of the South. Boatwright’s Dining Hall, designed to resemble a shipyard, serves up hearty Southern cuisine with a touch of Cajun flair. The Riverside Mill Food Court offers a diverse range of options, from classic American fare to international dishes.

To add an extra touch of charm, guests can embark on a relaxing boat ride to Disney Springs, a bustling entertainment district featuring shopping, dining, and live entertainment.

Port Orleans Riverside is not only a charming haven but also conveniently connected to the rest of Walt Disney World Resort. Guests can access the parks and other areas of the resort via buses or boat transportation. This seamless connectivity ensures that guests can easily explore the magic beyond the resort’s borders.

Port Orleans Riverside Resort masterfully marries the tranquility of Southern living with the enchantment of Disney magic. Its meticulous theming, comfortable accommodations, and array of recreational and dining options create an immersive experience that delights guests of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely retreat or a family adventure, this charming resort invites you to step into a world where Southern hospitality and Disney wonder intertwine in the most enchanting way.

Disney’s Moderate Resorts: A Perfect Blend of Comfort and Magic

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Resorts

When it comes to a Walt Disney World vacation, where you stay is an integral part of the experience. Disney’s Moderate Resorts offer a wonderful balance of comfort, theming, and affordability, making them a popular choice for families and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the magic while enjoying a relaxing retreat.

  • The Cabins at Fort Wilderness
  • Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
  • Disney Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
  • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

A Variety of Choices: Disney’s Moderate Resorts encompass a range of distinct properties, each with its own unique theming and charm. From the lush and tranquil surroundings of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort to the colonial elegance of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, there’s a Moderate Resort to suit different preferences and travel styles.

Themed Escapes: One of the standout features of Moderate Resorts is their immersive theming. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of New Orleans-inspired Port Orleans, feeling the island breeze at Caribbean Beach, or stepping into a rustic cabin at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of wonder and imagination.

Comfortable Accommodations: The accommodations at Moderate Resorts provide a comfortable haven after a day of exploring the theme parks. With spacious rooms that can accommodate families, groups, or couples, you’ll have ample space to relax and recharge. The theming extends to the rooms, creating a cohesive and enchanting atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.

Resort Amenities: Moderate Resorts offer a range of amenities that cater to guests of all ages. From swimming pools with water slides to jogging trails, arcades, and recreational activities, there’s plenty to keep you entertained during your downtime. Many resorts also feature dining options that capture the spirit of their respective themes, offering a variety of cuisines and flavors to suit different tastes.

Transportation Convenience: Staying at a Moderate Resort provides convenient transportation options to the Disney theme parks. Complimentary bus transportation ensures that you can easily reach the parks without the hassle of parking or navigation. Additionally, select Moderate Resorts are connected to the Disney Skyliner gondola system, offering a scenic and efficient way to travel to certain parks.

Affordable Luxury: Disney’s Moderate Resorts offer a middle ground between the value and deluxe resort categories in terms of pricing. This makes them an attractive choice for travelers seeking a balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. While they don’t come with all the bells and whistles of deluxe resorts, they still provide a touch of luxury and a strong dose of Disney magic.

Creating Memories: Staying at a Moderate Resort allows you to experience the best of both worlds – the excitement of the theme parks and the relaxation of a resort setting. The theming, amenities, and attentive service create an environment where magical memories are made. Whether you’re exploring the pathways of a French Quarter-inspired resort or lounging by the pool with your family, the moments you share at a Moderate Resort become an integral part of your Disney experience.

In conclusion, Disney’s Moderate Resorts offer a blend of comfort, theming, and affordability that make them a fantastic choice for a Walt Disney World vacation. Whether you’re a family with young children, a group of friends seeking adventure, or a couple looking for a romantic retreat, these resorts provide a well-rounded and magical experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the enchantment of Disney. From the themed escapes to the convenient transportation and comfortable accommodations, Disney’s Moderate Resorts offer a perfect blend of relaxation and magic that’s bound to make your vacation truly unforgettable.

Teen Arrested at Disney Hotel In Relation to Double Homicide

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Resorts

A 17-year-old teenager was arrested at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort in Orlando, Florida in relation to a double homicide.

On March 2, 2022, teenagers Malaki Trayvion Mazyck, 15, and Kenyon Johnson, 18, were the victims of a double homicide shooting in Summerville, South Carolina. The incident occurred outside of the Sangaree Public Library.

Mazyck passed away at the Brighton Park emergency room Wednesday and Johnson died Thursday at another hospital.

According to one report:

SUMMERVILLE SHOOTING RESULTS IN DOUBLE MURDER: The Coroner’s office has released the names of a 15 & 18 year old fatally shot Wednesday night.

Malaki Trayvion Mazyck, 15 of Summerville; & Kenyon Johnson, 18 of Goose Creek, died in the shooting, Darnell Hartwell stated. Mazyck died Wednesday at the Brighton Park emergency room and Johnson died Thursday at another hospital.

Berkeley County says the investigation began just after 9pm when authorities received a 911 call from the staff at the Brighton Park Emergency room for a possible shooting victim upon arrival they found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Pictures and videos from the scene showed that investigators had taped off part of the hospital as they were looking at a vehicle.

port orleans riverside pool

Just a few days later, on March 11, U.S. Marshall’s arrested suspect Dejuan Marty Smith, 17, in “his hotel room at the Port Orleans Resort” in Florida.

He was transported from Florida to the Berkeley County jail earlier this week, according to one report.

port orleans riverside

Smith is charged with two counts of murder and two counts of possessing a deadly weapon during a violent crime and will stand trial as an adult. If Smith is convicted of the crimes, he could face life in prison.

Story Book Dining at Artist Point and Boatwrights Reopening

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Resorts

We are excited to announce that two Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants are reopening and share other tasty tidbits. This Best Bites has everything from Snow White and Grumpy to “Dynamite” Cinnamon Roll Sticks and an Orange Bird Holiday Citrus Swirl. Check out all the yummy details below. Enjoy!

Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho – it’s off to dinner we go! Yes, Story Book Dining at Artist Point, inspired by the Disney film “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” will reopen Dec. 16 at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Reservations can be made beginning Dec. 2.

As part of our new Character Dining experience, all Guests will see Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and The Queen stroll through the Enchanted Forest while enjoying a bountiful prix fixe dinner with the choice of individually plated entrées and shared starters and desserts. Guests can start their storybook adventure with a wickedly refreshing cocktail like the Enchanted Apple with a hint of sour apple. The Royal Prime Rib Roast and the vegetarian A Stroll Through Nature are both returning as well as the decadent “Poison” Apple dessert with dark chocolate-apple mousse. Delish!

Boatwright’s Dining Hall, a hidden gem at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, will be serving up their Southern specialties for dinner starting Dec. 14. Reservations can be made beginning Dec. 2.

Enjoy the flavors of the Louisiana bayou with the all-you-care-to-enjoy Chef’s Platter featuring ribs, Nashville hot chicken, smoked sausage, and barbecued beef brisket with mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, street corn, and green beans. For Guests that have been craving General Fulton’s Prime Rib or the Deep-South Shrimp and Grits, they are back as well as the signature Boatwright’s Jambalaya and the plant-based Boatwright’s Harvest Jambalaya. And for a touch of Southern sweetness, be sure to order up the Mississippi Mud Crème Brûlée, a decadent chocolate brûlée with a chocolate shortbread cookie.

BOATWRIGHT'S DINING HALL, Orlando - Lake Buena Vista - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor

The over-the-top 50th Celebration Shake at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts is a birthday cake-flavored shake drizzled in gold glitter glaze topped with a slice of commemorative 50th celebration birthday cake. Now that is celebrating in style!

Want to start your breakfast off with a bang of sweetness? Try the “Dynamite“ Cinnamon Roll Sticks at Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge! Each order has five fiery red sticks filled with cinnamon schmear sprinkled with crushed red-hot candies and a drizzle of cinnamon oil. And for the dynamite wick – bacon! These sharable sticks of cinnamon goodness are served with a warm candied nut glaze.

The White Chocolate Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse with peppermint sauce and chocolate cookie crumbles will be offered at Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park from Dec. 20-27. White chocolate, peppermint, and cream cheese mousse? Can it get any better for the holidays?

La Crêperie de Paris is now taking reservations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tucked away in the France pavilion at EPCOT, this table restaurant serves savory galettes and sweet dessert crêpes, along with some of Brittany’s famous hard ciders.

Guests can order from the prix fixe menu with the choice of soup of the day or salade maison; choice of one galette with a glass of hard cider, soda, or juice; choice of one dessert crêpe.

Magic Kingdom Park chefs have rolled out two new offerings for The World’s Most Magical Celebration. Over at Main Street Bakery, the Opening Day Celebration Cake has arrived with milk chocolate mousse, raspberry center, and gluten-friendly chocolate cake topped with balloon sprinkles and a chocolate piece.

It’s Grumpy’s turn to get his own Seven Dwarfs Specialty Cone at Storybook Treats – a cranberry vanilla soft-serve in a cone with a chocolate belt buckle and an adorable “Grumpy” chocolate face! This treat is only available through Jan. 9.

Another delicious treat at Magic Kingdom Park offered only through Jan. 9 is the Black Forest Cheesecake at Pinocchio Village Haus. Guests just have a few more weeks to try this tasty chocolate cheesecake topped with cherry compote, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a white chocolate coin inspired by the “it’s a small world” attraction.

REVIEW: Pinocchio Village Haus in Disney World Kinda Makes Us Sad For Pizzas Everywhere. | the disney food blog

Three refreshing holiday offerings are making a splash at Disney’s Water Parks from Dec. 12-Jan. 7. That Orange Bird Santa is all sorts of cute!

  • Orange Bird Holiday Citrus Swirl –DOLE Whip Orange and Lime swirl in a holiday waffle cone, and a white chocolate Orange Bird Santa (available at Warming Hut) 
  • Merry Merry Melon –Melon- and apple-flavored frozen rum cocktail with a red sugared rim topped with a cherry (available at Frostbite Freddie’s) 
  • Peppermint Milkshake –Peppermint-flavored milkshake with white chocolate whipped cream and holiday sprinkles (available at Lottawatta Lodge)

(Note: All offerings subject to change.)

Disney’s Yehaa Bob Jackson Is Back – But You Aren’t Allowed to Sing Along

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Resorts

It’s FINALLY happening! Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside has officially reopened as of October 14th and Guests are flooding back to the beloved, New Orleans-themed Resort. While we’ll have to wait until October 28th for Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter to open, Riverside is dishing out all sorts of excitement. One of the most iconic forms of entertainment offered at Walt Disney World is the popular Yeeha Bob Jackson that performs at River Roost Lounge in Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. While we’re thrilled to see entertainment like Casey’s Corner Pianist, Jellyrolls, and stage shows return, we’ve been especially excited to get back to one of Bob’s performances as we sip a beverage or two to close out a perfect Disney day. While Bob is excited to return, he has warned Guests that Disney doesn’t want them to sing along.

Bob Jackson took to his Facebook page on October 14 to share, “I am very grateful to be returning to the stage at Disney tonight but there are some big restrictions on what I can perform. I’ve been instructed not to perform any sing-along music, and not to encourage anyone to sing along. I’m not to get anyone up and moving around the room. These are restrictions due to Covid and masks. Hopefully, these restrictions are only temporary and will be lifted in the near future as we get through the pandemic. Those of you at home can sing along, but those in the audience at the Port might be disappointed not to hear their old favorites from the show. As you can imagine, I’ve been scrambling the last day and a half to write another show! Thanks to you and your many requests over the last 17 months, I have plenty of new material to pick from. You’ll still be able to hear your favorites every Sunday night at our weekly sing-along show. Wish me luck tonight, I’m going to need it! We ain’t scared!!!”

Bob Jackson’s songs are typically perfect for singing along and his interaction with Guests makes the show all the better. But, you know what… we’ll take what we can get! Even if we can’t sing along, we’re thrilled to have a chance to see Bob work his making on the keys once again. Hopefully, as Bob said, these restrictions will be lifted soon enough. Best of luck, Bob!