Howdy, Kathy!
Welcome back to
planDisney! Thanks for sending another excellent question our way. I'd be thrilled to assist you with your upcoming getaway to the tranquil oasis of
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside.
I love that you plan to take advantage of
Early Theme Park Entry. My family of early birds values this perk, too! Typically, the buses make stops around your resort in the following order: West Depot, North Depot, East Depot (closest to most of the Royal Guest Rooms), and South Depot (main building).
If you're a super early riser and can be up and out in time for one of the first buses to make its rounds (usually about an hour before Early Theme Park Entry), then I don't think you'll run into an issue with full buses by the third stop. In my experience, the busiest time to catch a bus is about half an hour before Early Theme Park Entry begins. Even then, the
transportation system is firing on all cylinders at peak travel hours, and often, an empty bus will appear to collect still-waiting passengers just minutes after a full one departs. You can view approximate bus arrival times on the
My Disney Experience mobile app by tapping "My Resort" on the home screen.
If I were in your position, I would get up extra early to beat the crowds and catch one of the first buses of the day. For example, if
Magic Kingdom Park has a regular opening of 9 AM, I would plan to be at my bus stop between 7:30 and 7:45 just to be safe. By 8:00, the bus stops might be packed. An early arrival to your destination will give you a more relaxed experience, and you might even have time to stop for coffee on the way in. Grabbing an iced latte from the Joffrey's kiosk outside the
EPCOT main entrance is one of my favorite ways to start the day!
I hope this helps put your mind at ease, Kathy. Thanks again for visiting planDisney, and have a magical day!
Betsy