Hi Sophie!
Thanks for stopping by with another great question! I'm happy to hear you're considering one of my family's favorite places to call "home" when we're at Walt Disney World.
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside is a gorgeous and laid-back place to stay, with delicious dining, spacious rooms and easy boat access to Downtown Disney via the Sassagoula River.
The resort is divided into two distinctly-themed sections - Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend. The Alligator Bayou area is reminiscent of rural Louisiana bayou country, with rustic buildings, tall pine trees and tin roofs. The Magnolia Bend section has a charming Southern style, complete with mansions that have wide staircases and white columns.
If your priority is a Preferred Room location (one that is closer to the main lobby, dining and transportation) and/or a room that can sleep 5 people (2 queen beds and a pull-down Murphy bed), then Alligator Bayou is the answer. Neither of those options are available in the Magnolia Bend section.
On the other hand, if a Royal Guest Room would be a dream-come-true for your family, then Magnolia Bend is my recommendation. Specifically, Oak Manor and Parterre Place are the 2 buildings that have Royal Guest Rooms.
I wish I had a recommendation that would combine all of your wishes into one magical room, but hopefully this helps with your decision. If you'd like to learn more or see pictures of the options, check out www.portorleans.org for tons of unofficial information and updates.
Wishing you pixie-dusted planning, Sophie! Please write back if I can help answer any other questions along the way. I'd love to help!
Beth