Hi Michael,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I am always delighted to greet a fellow North Carolinian!
Decisions, decisions. This is a tough one. Until recently, I would have recommended that you switch to Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside but with
Disney Skyliner transportation now accessible at
Disney's Art of Animation Resort, I think the choice is much more difficult. With Disney Skyliner access, you would have fun and efficient transportation to other Disney Skyliner resorts and Epcot which would certainly widen your dining and entertainment options.
At Disney's Art of Animation Resort, the Big Blue pool is one of my favorite pools. The resort decor is super cute and the resort itself is fairly easy to navigate. The Landscape of Flavors food court has a variety of foods that should work for your family depending on your dining preferences. My family, however, loves table-service restaurants, especially breakfast buffets and family-style dinner restaurants. With food in mind, I prefer
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside. The
dining options are more extensive and
Boatwright's Dining Hall is a lovely table-service restaurant. What I love most about Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside is taking walks along the river. The grounds are so relaxing and the walk to
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter along the river is gorgeous.
With both resorts, transportation can be a challenge since both rely heavily on
Walt Disney World® Bus Service. Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside provides bus service to the parks and
water transportation to Disney Springs. At Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, the resort is expansive, so there are multiple bus stops at the resort. If you choose this resort, I suggest that you review a resort map and request a building location close to the main dining area.
Michael, as you consider your options, I will say that your choice may depend on the personalities of your family. Disney's Art of Animation Resort is a fun resort with decor that little ones would adore. Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside appeals to my adult sensibilities although it does have lovely pools and other kid-friendly activities!
Happy Planning!
Magic and memories,
Donyell