Hi, Patti! I've been thinking about your question all night long. (Yes, we do put a lot of thought into our answers at the Moms' Panel!) Since my family and I have stayed at both places, I asked my husband and four kids their thoughts on how to advise you, and it really all comes down to the three rules of real estate: location, location, location!
To break it down further for you, the Nick Hotel is a great property with lots of things to do and a great theme throughout the rooms, dining, entertainment and shopping. However, it
is a Holiday Inn which is comparable to a Value Resort at WDW (bedding, food, linens, services, amenities, etc.) Port Orleans Riverside is a moderate resort and is an upgrade in all those areas including (and most importantly to me) convenience. There is transportation to all four WDW parks from the Nick Hotel. However, it doesn't run as frequently or dependently as WDW transportation, and their buses have designated spots in the parking lot of each park as opposed to being driven right up to the gates. After unloading the bus, you'll then have to take WDW transportation (tram, boat, monorail) to the WDW park gates. In fact, we had to take a taxi back to the hotel one night after Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party because their transportation only follows a certain schedule and does not allow for special events.
I encourage you to compare all the
WDW Moderate Resorts so that you can stay at a resort with a great theme, lots to do
and convenience. Have a wonderful day and a magical vacation!