Welcome to Disney Parks Moms Panel, Monica!
Oh, the choice of where to stay at
Walt Disney World is always so exciting! Both Port Orleans-Riverside and Animal Kingdom Lodge are fantastic choices, so you cannot go wrong either way; we love them both!
These two resorts are in different areas of Walt Disney World, so carefully consider which parks you'll be visiting most often.
Disney's Port Orleans-Riverside is a Disney Springs area resort; this means that Disney Springs and Epcot will be closest to your resort, should you stay here. Of course, that means that Disney's Hollywood Studios will not be far, either. If you plan to visit these areas most, your transportation times may be shorter than at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Ol' Man Island is a super-fun recreation area that you are all sure to love, too, and this resort is truly a beautiful one.
However, although a greater distance from all other parks but Animal Kingdom Theme Park,
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is truly a very special place unlike any other location. From the moment you lay eyes on this resort, then step into the lobby, you will know that your stay will be truly magical. Theming here is unbelievably detailed, and views of the animals who call that area home will become a quick family favorite, to be sure. Here, you'll also be wowed with the option of both Uzima Pool and the nearby Samawati Springs Pool and Uwanja Camp--favorites with my family, too.
In short, DIsney's Port Orleans-Riverside will be an easier commute to parks other than Animal Kingdom; however, I think every family would love one truly amazing stay at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Send more questions as you think of them, Monica!
Andrea H