Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be fun, but also complicated — especially when you’re trying to choose between 25 resort hotels. If you’ve narrowed down your choices to these two resorts, how do you make your final selection?
Port Orleans Resort — Riverside
Well, we’re here to walk you through the similarities AND differences between Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans.
Whether cost, room size, location, pools, and/or restaurants are most important to you, we share the information that you’ll need to make an informed decision. After all, we want you to stay at the hotel that is best for your traveling party!
Let’s get started and look at all the details so that you can plan your Disney trip with confidence.
Port Orleans – Riverside
There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive, and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip. We’ll dive deeper into the details of these resorts by breaking down our analysis into five categories:
- Common Ground
- Theme/Rooms
- Pools
- Food
- Transportation
Coronado Springs Resort Gran Destino Tower
It takes a lot of research to plan a Disney vacation, but we’re here to help.
Common Ground
When planning your Disney World vacation, Moderate Resorts can be a great option that won’t break the bank but offer up some larger rooms and more amenities than a Value Resort.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Before we mention their differences, let’s take a look at what Coronado Springs and Port Orleans have in common. First, both have a relaxed vibe with quality theming.
Each has a central lobby building with outer buildings housing the actual hotel rooms. These resorts are sprawling with multiple, internal bus stops. And these resorts also have the unique commonality (talk about an ironic statement — unique commonality!) that they both have two accommodation options.
Port Orleans Bus stop
Port Orleans has two distinct districts, Riverside and French Quarter which offer Moderate accommodations and a variety of Cajun theming.
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
Coronado Springs also has two accommodations options, the Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas, situated around the Lago Dorado water mass and the Gran Destino Tower.
But what about the cost per night? These moderate resorts have similar price points!
For Coronado Springs Resort, starting at $290 per night for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit. The range goes aaaaalllll the way up to $2028 per night for the most expensive room (the Executive Suite) at the most expensive time to visit. Please note that these estimates do not account for any tax or current discounts.
Coronado Springs Resort
For Port Orleans Resort, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $278 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $555 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit.
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Theme/Rooms
Coronado Springs and Port Orleans – Riverside exude a relaxing atmosphere with nicely done theming.
As much as these resorts have in common, there are some distinct differences.
Port Orleans
Sweet Magnolia! Let the Louisiana-inspired hospitality charm you while exploring this vast resort. In fact, the resort is so large that it’s split into two sections. The French Quarter has all of the charm of New Orleans. Riverside is the larger of the two districts and is split into two sections: Alligator Bayou (swampy setting) and Magnolia Bend (stately mansions).
This hotel is so pretty!
The atmosphere of Port Orleans is absolutely a winning attribute, helping guests to relax and refuel in a space that’s rustic and comfortable.
Relax at Riverside
Heading inside, the lobby area is beautiful.
Checking in?
The check-in area is pretty grand! Just look at those high ceilings and architecture. Do you spot the hidden Mickeys?
It’s so pretty in here
Fulton’s General Store is where you can pick up all your souvenirs at Riverside.
Need some Mickey Ears?
While Jackson Square is the gift shop at the French Quarter.
Jackson Square Gifts & Desires
Onto the rooms! This Magnolia Bend building is SO PRETTY with big trees and a courtyard featuring a stately fountain. Riverside is a beautiful hotel!
We could hang out here all day
The 2-story “rustic cottages” in the Alligator Bayou area don’t have elevators. BUT the neighboring 3-story “Mansions” do.
Port Orleans Refurbished Room in Alligator Bayou ©Disney
Twisty pathways wind through the swamp-like setting of Alligator Bayou. Some guests love this side of the resort, others find it more difficult to find their way around and thus, less fun.
Fishing Hole at Riverside
Either accommodations — Alligator Bayou or Magnolia Bend — are perfectly themed.
The French Quarter has rooms in colorful New Orleans-style buildings with decorative wrought-iron filigree staircases and balconies.
You’ll find the rooms at the French Quarter to have all of the charm of their exterior but similar setup and amenities as other moderate resorts. Room options come with two queen-size beds or one king bed.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort French Quarter Standard View Room
Whether you’re gazing out your window at the quaint courtyard of New Orleans Square, or the grassy grounds surrounding the Magnolia Bend mansions, the inside of your room with provide just the right about of Creole charm, regardless of location.
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Coronado Springs Resort
Coronado Springs Resort draws its theme and inspiration from Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American cultures.
Coronado Springs Resort
The general feel is more modern than that of Caribbean Beach, especially with the 2019 addition of the stunning Gran Destino Tower.
Inside Gran Destino Tower
It’s also worth noting that Coronado Springs hosts a Convention Center, so fellow guests may likely be convention guests in addition to vacation guests. But that doesn’t mean that Coronado Springs doesn’t also have a sense of fun, which you’ll spy in touches around the Resort!
Inside Panchitos Gift Shop
Most Standard and Preferred Rooms in the Casitas (guest room housing outside of the Gran Destino Tower) can sleep up to 4 adults.
Standard Room at Coronado Springs Resort
(Just a reminder, Caribbean Beach Resort Rooms can sleep up to five guests, depending on bedding options.)
Gran Destino Towerprovides even more options for guests.
Gran Destino Tower Room
Tower Rooms and Suites can sleep up to 4 adults.
Deluxe Suite Bedroom
And there are options for some great water views!
View from the 11th floor
Of course, that’s a very brief glimpse, so we encourage you to check out MORE of Gran Destino — including plenty of room photos — HERE.
Click HERE for a photo tour of Gran Destino Tower!
Results
Those looking for a bit more of a mature vibe may feel more at home at Coronado Springs Resort, and for those business-class accommodations, Gran Destino delivers. The rooms at Port Orleans were last refurbished in 2019. Many room renovations at Walt Disney World have resulted in a more generic, less themed look.
Pools
When the weather is HOT, or you just need a break from park queues, head to your resort pool! After all, the pools have their own unique features and special theming. Feature pools at Walt Disney World hotels usually have at least one slide and also offer poolside activities. Look at the hotel’s recreation schedule for more information. Some Disney resorts are so spread out that they also offer leisure pools.
Pool at Riverside
These swimming spots are family-friendly, with at least one whirlpool spa. Leisure pools are quieter than the more crowded and active feature pools. And this is one of the few resorts where guests can visit pools at either the French Quarter or Riverside, no matter which side of the resort your room is.
Port Orleans French Quarter Pool
Note that poolside towels are always complimentary.
Coronado Springs Resort
Coronado Springs offers the Dig Site pool complex featuring The Lost City of Cibola pool!
The Lost City of Cibola Pool
A 50-foot pyramid is the centerpiece of this Mayan ruins-themed area, which is complete with a 123-foot-long waterslide.
Pyramid at The Lost City
Additional features include a kiddie pool and a sand volleyball court for some extra fun in the sun. And the Dig Site offers guests the chance to unwind in the largest whirlpool spa in Disney World!
Time for Some Fun in the Sun!
Three leisure pools are also available around the Resort.
Results
Both have an assortment of pools, pool bars, lounge chairs, and splash areas. Again, it might boil down to just what your style is. The edge for this category goes to Port Orleans as it offers features pools for both resorts as well as some quiet pools scattered around Riverside.
Checking in?
But, in truth, there’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy!
10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools
Food
Park days can be exhausting. Whether you’re taking a whole day to enjoy your resort, or you are relaxing after a shopping excursion at Disney Springs, once you’re at your Disney World hotel, you might not want to get back on a bus or boat for nourishment. So, you’ll want to know about the best options at your Disney World resort.
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory
Take a look at the menus and decide which resort has the food that best suits your family.
Port Orleans
Port Orleans – Riverside offers a variety of southern-themed food choices. Port Orleans – Riverside and Port Orleans – French Quarter are connected to each other with a walking path, so you can eat at either resort’s locations and get your fill of southern and New Orleans-inspired meals.
Boatwright’s Dining Hall is Riverside’s hidden gem of a Table Service restaurant, open every evening for dinner. The cajun-inspired menu is perfectly themed to its setting, and the Jambalaya is a hit!
Dining area
Stop here for southern hospitality and a sit-down meal!
Muddy Rivers Pool Bar can be found by Ol’ Man Island swimming pool and serves up cool and refreshing cocktails and mocktails.
Muddy Rivers Pool Bar
When you’re relaxing at the pool, you can also get light fare at Muddy Rivers.
Riverside Mill Food Court features Counter Service classics along with a few Southern-inspired dishes, all with a view of a 32-foot water wheel through the window. The Riverside Mill has great curb appeal with its blue exterior and long front porch.
Riverside Mill Food Court
You’ll find several windows or stations offering a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We’ve eaten here many times before, and the variety and quality have typically been pretty top-notch for a hotel food court.
Riverside Mill
Riverside Mill offers lots of atmospheric charm in addition to a pretty tasty menu!
River Roost Lounge is a great spot to grab a drink any evening and offers a menu of hearty eats as well. Here you can get light bites and some classic New Orleans cocktails.
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere
This is a charming place to relax with a beverage!
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Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory serves up Resort food court classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken nuggets. But New Orleans-inspired cuisine is well represented with selections like Po’ Boy sandwiches, Jambalaya, and Shrimp & Grits.
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory is open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Scat Cat’s Club Cafe is dedicated to serving up a unique-to-the-Resort favorite: Beignets!
Mickey Beignets!
Scat Cat’s Club — Cafe is open from early morning (Beignets for BREAKFAST!) to late at night.
Scat Cat’s Club Lounge serves up drinks, live jazz, and more! On select evenings, guests can listen to live jazz musicians while sipping on specialty cocktails.
Scat Cat’s Club — Lounge
Though hours may vary, Scat Cat’s Club — Lounge is typically open at 5PM in the evening through midnight. Live music starts at 7:30PM on Fridays through Sundays.
Mardi Grogs Pool Bar — where the name says it all! Enjoy drinks by Doubloon Lagoon, the Mardi Gras-themed pool.
Mardi Grogs
Though hours may vary, Mardi Grogs is typically open at 11AM and through the evenings.
Coronado Springs Resort
Settle in, friends… because we’re about to explore the 10 dining options at Coronado Springs Resort!
El Mercado de Coronado is the primary Quick Service option at Coronado Springs. While a bit of Tex-Mex fare is available in the form of Nachos and Sante Fe Chicken sandwiches, you may be surprised to see find plenty of pasta and flatbreads up for grabs, too.
El Mercado de Coronado
You can enjoy your meal right there in the roomy dining area, or choose one of many grab-and-go options like an entrée salad or sandwich.
El Mercado de Coronado Grab-n-Go Desserts
The fantastic dessert bar tends to fly under the radar, but the cupcakes and cronuts are well worth a look (and taste!). Adults can even pick up a layered Fiesta Margarita here!
Next door, Café Rix also offers an above-par selection of pastries for breakfast, and you can grab a specialty coffee to start your day.
Breakfast at Cafe Rix
Coronado Springs is home to several Table Service restaurants. Maya Grill serves authentic Mexican fare for dinner (which you can enjoy with a tequila or margarita flight).
Chicken Fajita Skillet at Maya Grill
Rix Sports Bar & Grill is a casual spot where you can grab some great pub grub (don’t miss the WATCHOS) while you take in the big game on one of its bajillion TV screens.
Watchos at Rix
It was love at first site when the lovely Three Bridges Bar & Grill at Villa del Lago opened to deliver ON-the-water dining to Coronado Springs!
Three Bridges Bar & Grill
This shaded, open-air restaurant serves up sharable plates along with full entrees like Steak Frites. Or you can simply enjoy a crafted cocktail or a glass or two of house-made sangria.
Sangria Flight at Three Bridges Bar & Grill
(Pssst… did you know that you can also earn your Sangria Diploma here? It’s true!)
Casual outdoor lounges include Siestas Cantina, located at the Dig Site pool area. (You can also grab a bite to eat here, too.) Laguna Bar is a small but charming waterfront bar that also serves up some of the eats from Rix Sports Bar & Grill.
Laguna Bar
But we’re not done yet…
Barcelona Lounge is a stunner of a space, located on the lobby level of Gran Destino Tower.
Barcelona Lounge
It serves as an espresso bar by day, and a gin bar by night (though other spirits and wines are also on offer).
Travel all the way up to the rooftop’s Dahlia Lounge to enjoy tapas, Spanish wines, and crafted cocktails in an upscale setting complete with fantastic views.
Dahlia Lounge
Those rooftop views extend to the gem that is Toledo — Tapas, Steak & Seafood.
Toledo — Tapas, Steak and Seafood
Guests can expect cuisine inspired by Spain at this Signature restaurant, including seafood and steak options. Small plates and House Boards (charcuterie and cheese) are plated in an on-stage tapas kitchen. Wine lovers should take note that 80% of its vintages on the extensive wine list are from Spain.
Truly, it’s almost an embarrassment of riches when it comes to dining at Coronado Springs Resort.
Click HERE for our Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort!
Results
Port Orleans has all of the dining options at both Riverside & French Quarter, not to mention the easy access (via boat) to Disney Springs.
Barcelona Lounge
Still, when you do a resort-to-resort comparison, it’s no contest. The win goes to Coronado Springs Resort for its sheer variety, food quality, GORGEOUS settings, and wide range of pricing options from casual to upscale. In fact, not only does Coronado Springs win out in a food contest over Port Orleans Resort. These days, Coronado Springs can hold its own against Deluxe Resorts when it comes to offering true destination dining in Disney World.
The Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Coronado Springs
Transportation
So, what happens when you want to explore things OUTSIDE of your Resort? Just like all Disney Resort hotels, free transportation is provided to all four Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs at both Resorts. But there is another MAJOR difference to explore…
Port Orleans
If you’re planning to visit the parks, you’ll have to use the Disney bus transportation system for all of those needs. And though Port Orleans isn’t as close to Disney Springs as Saratoga and Old Key West are, there is boat transportation that’ll take you over to the shopping district and access to all of those restaurants!
Port Orleans Resorts
Otherwise, you’re limited to taking the bus — a bus that’s shared sometimes with Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter.
Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, meanwhile, simply offers bus service.
Disney Bus Transportation from Magic Kingdom
And, due to the fact that the nearest park is Disney’s Animal Kingdom, that means you can expect longer rides times to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom.
Find our Guide to Disney World Transportation HERE
Results
Again, this is an easy win…. But this time, that win goes to Port Orleans Resort, because that boat service to Disney Springs seals the deal!
Find our Guide to Disney World Transportation HERE
The Winner!
So, where do we think you should stay? Sorry, that decision has to be up to you. Port Orleans swept the Pool and Transportation categories. The options to access the pools at both French Quarter and Riverside provide a plethora of cool, relaxing options. And a chill boat ride down the Sassagoula Waterway to Disney Springs locked in the Transportation category.
Champagne Beignet from Scat Cat’s Club
Coronado Springs won the Room/Theme and Food categories. The posh options in the Gran Destino Tower and all of that on-site dining really make Coronado Springs stand out as a whole vacation destination by itself!
Pretty but BUSY
But really, that decision comes down to you. Which resort will you choose?
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Would you rather stay at Caribbean Beach or Coronado Springs? Please let us know with a comment!
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You forgot Rachos and Cabanas as Coronado. It has 4 areas.
Thank you so much for this very very informative article. Or family with a 3 year old are contemplating these very two hotels for a two in a month
Such a tough decision. We are going for 10 nights. I am thinking of splitting the time between the two resorts
So we ended up visiting both resorts at the begining of the year.
Port Orleans – Grounds are beautiful. Very Disney themed and tons to eat, see, playground, huge pool and the ferry to disney springs!!! If your going with kids, i’d choose Port Orleans hands down.
Coronado Springs – More modern, but convention center feel. Not as much in terms of things the children will enjoy other than the pool and a small playground area. I’d say it caters more to adults, couples, whom are looking for a quieter , more secluded experience away from the busy-ness of the parks. It is a modern and more spread out resort though.