Hi Olivia:
Wilderness Lodge and Port Orleans French Quarter are two wonderful resorts, and it's likely you and DD will be happy at either one. Without knowing your exact budget, my general rule of thumb when deciding between two different levels of resorts is to estimate how much time you plan to spend at the hotel. Personally, I love the WL, but if I was going on a quick vacation, I'd probably opt for the POFQ. However, since deluxe resorts like the WL typically offer more amenities, you may get your money's worth out of the WL if you can dedicate a full day at the resort. The following is a non-exhaustive list of the WL's features and amenities:
- Dramatic themeing: the resort is inspired by old-time rustic national-park lodges, featuring a 7 story lobby with towering wooden columns and gigantic fireplace. There is a bubbling spring that flows into a creek and empties into a swimming pool
- Great on-site dining in the form of 2 full service restaurants, a lounge and 2 snack bars. You don't have to stay at the WL to dine at these locations, but it's great that they are on site
- Boat service to the Magic Kingdom. My children consider the boat service to be a ride in itself
- Health club
- The Cubs Den childcare facility
- Option to stay at concierge level
While the WL has a great pool and slide, as well as a geyser spurting water into the sky every hour, the themeing of the POFQ pool is more fun, in my opinion.
Depending on the length of your stay, you may consider hedging your bets and booking at both resorts. Disney makes transferring between resorts easy and will transport your luggage from your first resort to the next resort for free. Just give your name and hotel transfer information to bell services when checking out and you can pick up your luggage at the next resort upon check-in.
You are sure to have a great time at either hotel. Enjoy your vacation.