WDW Hotel

When we started planning this trip, Mark did a lot of research about hotels at WDW and picked out the Port Orleans: French Quarter. At Disney, there are 3 levels of hotels: value, moderate, and deluxe. When my grandparents took the family for their 50th wedding anniversary, we stayed in the Animal Kingdom Lodge, a deluxe resort. It was such a beautiful place! When Mark and I went in 2010, we stayed at Coronado Springs, a moderate resort. We liked it, but decided to try a new hotel next time. We considered a deluxe resort, but ultimately decided to stay another day and choose a less expensive option. The Port Orleans resort has two branches, and French Quarter is the smaller of the two. People recommended it because there's only one bus stop (unlike other moderate resorts, which have several), and it's relatively small, compact, and quiet. Sometimes, it shares bus service with the other Port Orleans resort (which adds at least 10 minutes to the drive), but we found that many times, we had our own bus. Also, the resort is pretty centrally located within the WDW property, so it doesn't take too long to get anywhere (unlike the Animal Kingdom Lodge, which is a bit remote). It's also the only place on property that sells beignets (which were good enough to eat, but not something I'd make a special trip for). Overall, I think we really enjoyed this hotel, though I think we're considering the Contemporary (a deluxe resort within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom with great restaurants) for the next trip--if we can afford it! 

Walking toward the main building from the bus stop. 

Mark with the fountain in the lobby.

Looking toward the dining area.

One of the famous beignets (they come in a box of 3).

On the opposite side of the lobby.

Near the pool area.

Our building, which was really close to the main lobby.

View of the main lobby.

The cute display in the store window.

Our room! It's hard to see, but the towels on the corner of the
bed are arranged in a Mickey shape.

I loved this shower curtain!

Housekeeping left us a few surprises during the stay!

An Olaf towel in one of our neighbors' windows.

Last, but not least, the super cheerful doorman!