Hello Caroline,
Wow, this is going to be one very exciting first trip for you all to Walt Disney World. We're so glad you stopped by the Moms Panel for advice.
For your princess loving daughter, I think a
"Royal Guest Room" at Port Orleans Riverside would be perfect. This is a resort in the moderate level of pricing. This resort has a quiet southern charm and happens to be one of my favorites. These royal rooms are special rooms that are themed to look like you are special guests of Tiana. There are princess touches all over the room complete with an LED headboard that has special effect "fireworks". You do need to specially reserve this room type when making your reservation as some rooms at this resort are not considered "royal rooms". This resort is also fairly centrally located with bus transportation to all the theme parks and boat transportation to Downtown Disney. The pool at this location is Ol' Man Island and is themed as an old-fashioned swimming hole.
If you would prefer to stay at a resort closest to the Magic Kingdom, I would recommend Disney's
Grand Floridian Resort. Keep in mind that this resort is a deluxe resort with a higher price point. However, there are many great aspects and amenities that make it worth your money. It is on the monorail line, has wonderful restaurants, one of which has a
dinner with Cinderella, Prince Charming, the Stepmother and Stepsisters, 1900 Park Fare. Not only does this resort have a great pool, it also has a beach, too!
I hope you can find the perfect resort for your magical first stay. Feel free to stop by with more questions as you plan.
~Allison L