Hi Kristen! Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
My family often visits
Disney Springs on our arrival day, so I love your plan! Since you are staying at Disney's Port Orleans Resort, you will have easy access to Disney Springs by
bus or
ferryboat. The boat is such a beautiful ride and I definitely recommend you take it at least once!
You'll be happy to know that whether you are staying at
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside or
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter, you will be able to leave your luggage with Bell Services in the event that your room is not yet available. When you return to your Disney Resort hotel after shopping and dining in Disney Springs, you can either stop by Bell Services and retrieve your bags or call to have them brought up once you are in your room. I always keep a little cash on hand to tip the Cast Members at Bell Services for their assistance. It is completely optional, but they are always so helpful and I know they appreciate it!
Don't forget about
Merchandise Delivery when you are shopping in Disney Springs. This is another great benefit to save you from having to carry bags around all day!
Enjoy your vacation, Kristen! Please let us know if you have any other questions.
Tabitha