Hi Charlene! Thank you for visiting the Disney Parks Mom’s Panel!
I will start by saying I am a little biased when it comes to answering this question.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is one of my favorite resorts. In my opinion this resort hotel offers true southern charm. For me there is a certain enchantment when I arrive, and I envision myself actually entering the Mississippi bayou area of the south. I love the quaint lobby, and the stately white-column mansions in the Magnolia Bend area where some guest rooms are located. The food is also delicious even at the quick service area, and I feel that there is a good variety! I find this resort to be easy to navigate. My children also love Ol’ Man Island. Our family always travels on a budget and for us the room size, and southern charm that this resort hotel offers makes the price right for us!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is truly a stunning resort hotel. While I’ve never been to Africa, when I step inside the Lodge I can imagine that this is what Africa must look and feel like. There are some amazing amenities offered here such a zero-depth entry pool that is themed like an actual natural watering hole, and a supervised children’s activity center called Simba’s Clubhouse where children can go to make new friends while the adults enjoy a night out. For me if I have the option to stay at a deluxe resort hotel, I want to be right in the middle of the action and that would be a Savannah view room. In these rooms you feel like the animals are actually putting on a show just for you. Since your option is to stay at a garden view room, it may not be worth the cost of staying at a deluxe resort.
Honestly both resort hotels are fantastic family friendly options, but I think that you should follow your heart!
~Heather~