Hi, Diane!
I completely understand your hesitance about staying in a Moderate Resort after having had the convenience of staying adjacent to the monorail. Since becoming Disney Vacation Club Members, my family always stays in a DVC Resort...until last month.
My 11-year old son and I just got back from a wonderful stay at
Disney's Port Orleans-Riverside, and we'd stay there again in a heartbeat. This is just a truly beautiful resort, filled with so many nuances and unique features that many Guests return here year after year. I can see why.
Transportation was a breeze to every park and Downtown Disney, too, especially because our room was located in the Magnolia Terrace portion of the resort...just a one-minute walk to the East Depot, so catching a Resort Bus anywhere was a breeze. A 3-minute walk brought us back to the main pool, dining, lobby and shopping also. We loved our location! Take a look at this
map of Disney's Port Orleans Resort so that you can see for yourself what a great spot this was, too. Upon making a reservation request, we always ask the Cast Member assisting us about locations that he or he suggests, based on our needs. When you call, let the CM know that transportation is a big concern for you, and I'm sure you'll be able to find additional options as well.
Send more questions as you think of them, Diane. I'd love to help!