Hi Erin!
I'm so glad to hear that you are planning on visiting Walt Disney World in the future! The Moderate Resorts gives you the best of both worlds with wonderful services and amenities, but not the higher cost of the Deluxe Resorts.
Since you have stayed in the Pirate Rooms, I assume that you might have little ones in your party or ,like me, you just loved to be surrounded by the Disney magic. My suggestion is to check out the
Royal Guests Rooms at Port Orleans Riverside. I had a chance to tour these rooms in December and all I can say is....wow! All the magical touches from each Disney princess are wonderful and the headboards have a buttons that allow you to view your own personal fiber optic firework show. Besides the fabulous rooms, Port Orleans Riverside, in my opinion, is the best themed of all the moderate resorts. The details are magnificent and you can really imagine yourself right in the heart of the bayou. I recommend taking a carriage rider renting a surrey bike, they are a lot of fun.
My family loves to sample all the culinary delights at Disney World and Port Orleans Riverside offers some exceptional dining options from Boatwright's Dining Hall to the Riverside Mill Food Court (check out the real working water wheel). I have to urge you to head over to Sassagoula Float Works in the French Quarter section, they have fabulous beignets that are definitely worth the small trek.
I have to say that my vote is for Port Orleans, either section, because of the close proximity you can enjoy the wonderful themes of both resorts. Please let us know if we can answer any more of your questions!
Have a Magical Vacation!
Mandy