Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Linda!
I took your question straight to the expert: my tween daughter. We had an amazing stay at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside last year, and my kids loved the resort so much that my daughter chose to skip the theme parks for most of her birthday in favor of enjoying time in the pool and exploring the fabulous recreation and dining amenities.
The great news, Linda, is that you can indeed use the amenities of both Port Orleans resorts as long as you're staying at either Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside or Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. These sister resorts have so much to offer, so no matter which you call home, you're welcome to swim in both pools, and take advantage of the recreation and dining offerings at either resort.
My tween and I recommend Riverside for your home base, because its pool has super-fun theming and a great slide. There's also
cane pole fishing at the Fishin' Hole on Ol' Man Island, the Medicine Show Arcade, and bike rentals. My family loved the food at Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (they have a beignet sundae!) at French Quarter, so we walked over there several times – the path takes you right past the gorgeous Sassagoula River.
At the Port Orleans resorts, you're a boat ride away from Disney Springs, which is a great place for tweens. Splittsville Luxury Lanes is a fun place to bowl and get a great meal, or visit The VOID for an amazing virtual reality experience themed to Star Wars or Ralph Breaks the Internet. Add live music, yummy dining and treats, and you’ve got a
tween-tastic destination.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn