We just got back from our 1st stay at POR Riverside, and I truly loved every minute spent at the resort! Seriously
(Sorry in advance for such a long review. So many good things to say!)
I was a skeptic when we switched our stay from CBR due to the construction project, but it was a Disney blessing in disguise
As soon as we arrived (in the pouring rain), I knew I was in love. I was a fan before falling asleep our 1st night.
We were in the Preferred section, building 27 room 2740. I loved the location and will request that exact room next year. It was second story and just around (literally lol) the corner from a very short breeze way to the stairs leading down to the river path
While further from the main area and South Depot than the other Preferred buildings (I think?), it was simply perfect! The walk was still super short (to us) while keeping us further away from the noise and traffic of the food court.
I spent
hours in the mornings and late night wandering the lake path, sitting on benches/ledges/rocking chairs staring at the river and beautiful scenery. I just
adore the main area late at night when it's all lit up. It takes my imagination to a tiny Louisiana river town from the 1800's
Disney is so on point with its theming.
I loved the rustic room decor. We live in TN close to the mountains. From pictures, I was afraid the rustic theming would remind me too much of Gatlinburg. But again, Disney is so on point in distinguishing the rustic details.
While it was booked to capacity, it never felt crowded (except the food court when it rained). Due to the size, we'll always book Preferred. At other resorts (even the sprawling CBR), we've never felt that was necessary.
We loved River Roost and Yeehaw Bob. We loved the boats to Disney Springs and back. And of course I adored the scenery and atmosphere. It truly feels like a destination resort, with the parks as a bonus. Next year, I'm cutting our park time down considerably to enjoy the resort more. We didn't try the TS, but we will next time. Heck, I even now want to try the fishing hole (I'm 39 and never fished in my life
)
The only negative we found was the buses leaving the parks (going to them they were great). Our running joke was we didn't need to know the depot number. All we had to do was spot the longest line of people waiting
The buses were few and far between. Confused on that, bc we only had to stop at the FQ side two nights
(And one of them,
nobody even got off at FQ
). We spent more time waiting on buses and having to stand than any other trip (Again, only leaving the parks. Going was always perfect.)
I'm already looking forward to next year!
