POR 5th sleep preferred room

Question

Hi, we are staying at POR in a 5th sleep 3 adults 2 kids (8 & 3) in the summer. We have stayed here before in the magnolia Bay Area 10 years ago. Is the distance between preferred and non preferred to the main building significant? Thanks

Answer

Port Orleans Riverside (POR) has a large resort layout, so room location can make a noticeable difference, especially if you are relying on walking to the main building for check-in, dining, or recreation. The “preferred” rooms are typically closer to the main building (Alligator Bayou or Magnolia Bend, depending on the section), while “non-preferred” rooms can be further out in the same section or in another area.

For a party of 5 using a 5th sleep, you’ll likely be in a larger room in either Magnolia Bend or Alligator Bayou. Here’s what to know about distances and convenience:

Preferred Rooms: Usually within a 5–10 minute walk to the main building, restaurants, and bus stops. This is convenient for families with kids, as it reduces walking distances and makes returning to the room between park days or meals easier.
Non-Preferred Rooms: Can be anywhere from a 10–15 minute walk, sometimes up to 20 minutes, especially if located at the far ends of Magnolia Bend or Alligator Bayou. These rooms are still within the same general area but may require a longer walk, especially if carrying strollers or luggage.
Main Building Amenities: The main building houses the lobby, check-in, Riverside Mill Food Court, gift shop, and bus transportation. Preferred rooms give you quicker access to all of these, which can save time during busy summer stays.

Additional considerations:

If you plan to walk frequently or return mid-day to the room with kids, a preferred room is generally worth it for convenience.
Some non-preferred rooms can be quieter and more secluded, which may appeal if you value a peaceful location over proximity.
Shuttles are not available within the resort; all walking is on paved paths, so even non-preferred rooms are safe and accessible.

In summary, preferred rooms at POR are significantly closer to the main building, reducing walking time by several minutes compared to non-preferred rooms. For a family of 3 adults and 2 kids, especially with a 3-year-old, the extra convenience of a preferred room can make the stay more comfortable, though non-preferred rooms remain functional and safe.