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All About the Extras
Overnight guests enjoy a number of special perks, like early entry and late stay theme park privileges (Extra Magic Hours), free onsite transportation, free parking and the opportunity to participate in a Disney Dining Plan with a Magic Your Way Package. Additional privileges include online room check-in (up to 10 days in advance), resort airline check-in and airport transportation service via Disney's Magical Express.
If luck follows you, you might enjoy some "surprise" benefits as well, such as towel animals courtesy of Mousekeeping and special occasion treats like birthday buttons and character phone calls (note special event at time of registration).
Onsite Transportation
Free transportation to and from Walt Disney World theme parks and water parks is provided by bus. Bus stops (four) are located near lodging areas and Riverside Mill. Complimentary daily boat service is provided to and from Port Orleans French Quarter and Downtown Disney. Hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Boats depart every 20 minutes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and every 10 minutes from 4 to 11 p.m.
Fitness Options
A 0.7-mile paved jogging trail runs parallel to the Sassagoula River, between Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter Resorts. Saratoga Springs Resort offers a full spa as well as an on-site Health Club. Gym access is free to Port Orleans Riverside guests ages 14 and up (Key to the World Card required). Guests ages 14 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
In-Room Babysitting
Kids Nite Out, an independent agency, provides in-room resort childcare. Rates are $16 per hour for the first child, with a four-hour minimum and a $10 caregiver transportation fee.
Strollers
If you're visiting with kids under three, you'll need to bring, rent or buy a stroller. Fulton's General Store sells a reclining umbrella model for around $50. Local services that deliver include All About Kids, Orlando Stroller Rental and Owner's Locker.
The Art of Smart Timing
When traveling to Walt Disney World Resort, it's best to avoid peak travel periods. Generally, these times include holidays and the summer months -- in other words, any time schools are out of session. If you do opt to visit in summertime, pack sunscreen, hydrate frequently and, unless you want to squander your souvenir money on ponchos at the parks, don't forget your raingear.
Fortunately, for travelers on a budget, the least expensive times to visit Walt Disney World theme parks (Value Season) tend to coordinate with dates when crowds are the lightest. If your kids aren't in school yet, September is a great time to visit. Another prime time is after Thanksgiving through early December, when parks and resorts are decked out in holiday splendor.
For Mom and Dad
Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride (see details in "Family Activities") or board a boat for the French Quarter for a spicy evening of jazz and jambalaya at Scat Cat's Club and Sassagoula Food Factory. If you're more into natural scenery, consider a peaceful (and free) river cruise to Downtown Disney. The last return launch of the day departs Downtown Disney at 11:30 pm.
Getting There
From Orlando International Airport (MCO): Free roundtrip airport transportation via motorcoach is available to guests (advance reservation required; limited hours) via Disney's Magical Express. To reach the resort by car, take the South Exit Road from Orlando International Airport to SR 417 Toll Road (GreeneWay) West and follow signs to Walt Disney World/Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort. Plan on about $3 in tolls.
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