Welcome back to planDisney, Brad! Your upcoming stay at Port Orleans Resort is sure to blend southern charm with Disney magic; as a Louisiana native,
Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter is my favorite moderate level resort, but whether you'll be at
Port Orleans Riverside or French Quarter, you're going to have a magical stay!
Brad,
Disney Springs is a great destination for your arrival night, and you are correct that no park ticket is required for admission! This shopping, dining, and entertainment complex offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and onsite experiences to kick-start your vacation! One of my favorite stops while at Disney Springs is the
Disney PhotoPass Studio, where my family always stops in for some quick vacation photos that we can later view and download directly in the
My Disney Experience mobile app! We also always take some time to shop at
World of Disney for the perfect souvenirs and grab our favorite ice cream treats at
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain (it's the Treasure Island Warm Brownie Sundae for me!).
Because you're staying at Port Orleans, you can connect to Disney Springs by Disney bus service or by jumping aboard a
water taxi to take a scenic river cruise down the Sassagoula River (my preferred method of transportation from this resort!). There is no direct walking path to connect you to Disney Springs, but there is a walking path that connects the two Port Orleans resorts, so if you'd like to visit both, you can easily do so! I always recommend stopping by Port Orleans French Quarter to sample the Mickey-shaped beignets at
Scat Cat's Club if you get the chance!
Brad, I hope this helps! If you have any other planning questions before it's time to laissez less bon temps rouler, come on back to
planDisney and let us know! We're always here to help!
See you real soon,
Alison