Hi Heather!
Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)
You are going to have an amazing time at the Port Orleans French Quarter. It is one of my favorites! I love the great value of this moderate hotel and its romantic sophisticated grounds. Be sure to stop in and have a beignet at the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (say that three times fast!)
I too have arrived in the Orlando area prior to our Disney (land or sea) vacation and secured a hotel offsite. But before you go that route, call the
Disney Resort Hotel Reservation Phone Number listed in this link and check out a couple of options. First find out how much more it would be to simply add one day onto your reservation or make a one night separate room-only reservation. I have been pleasantly surprised in the past and was able to secure a good rate and not have to check into a different resort. The second inquiry would be to find out how much it would cost for a one night stay at a Disney value resort. This is a great option too because you are able to start your vacation already immersed in the magic **AND** they will transport your luggage for you to your next resort.
If neither of those options work out, then one unofficial site that I check for good pricing and current deals is Mousesavers.com. Their main page lists current mousesaver specials. There is also a tab with a listing and description of their preferred hotels. The most economical choice is often Buena Vista Suites. I stayed there last year with my family of 6 and was impressed by the full American breakfast buffet that was included in the price.
I hope this information helps you in finding a nice hotel!
Blessings,
Brenda ºOº