Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside has officially debuted a complete redesign of its Royal Guest Rooms, replacing the classic ornate furnishings with a dramatically different look. The redesigned rooms feature more direct visual references to Louisiana and New Orleans than their predecessors — though fans of the original design may find themselves missing what's been left behind.
A New Look Rooted in the Bayou
A new piece of Princess Tiana artwork now hangs on the wall. Though the piece has the appearance of stained glass, it is not actually made from the material. A letter from Tiana is embedded in the table and reads:
"Dear friends, I wished on the Evening Star that you would visit, and here you are! Naveen and I are pleased as punch to have you stay with us. Some say a person's home is their castle, and for us, that couldn't be truer. But it's the happy memories that make our house a home — like the time I spent with Mama and Daddy making gumbo when I was a little girl. So hop to it and make yourself at home! All my love, Princess Tiana."
"As we say in New Orleans, 'y'all pass a good time!' – Naveen"
The chairs are much more standard than the previous regal chairs, and the curtains feature a pattern very reminiscent of the rest of the hotel. A ceiling fan and light hang above the beds, while hardwood-look flooring extends throughout the room. One improvement over the previous design is the additional storage available beneath each elevated bed.
Decorative molding runs along the top of the walls where they meet the ceiling. The detailed design features symbols associated with Tiana and Naveen, including Ray the firefly, crowns, lilies, and lily pads.
What's Been Removed
The ornate headboards and decorations above the beds have been removed. The new bayou artwork no longer features fireworks or appearances by other Disney Princesses. The Cinderella carriage-inspired coat rack from the previous room has also been removed and replaced by three simple hooks mounted on a board.
In the shower area, the former design included a shower curtain inspired by The Little Mermaid, but it has now been replaced by a frosted-glass sliding door. Wall-mounted dispensers hold the shampoo, body wash, and conditioner.
Modern Touches and Hidden Details
Beside the nightstand are several modern charging options, including two standard electrical outlets, one USB port, and one USB-C port. A charming hidden detail becomes visible inside the lampshade when the light is illuminated. A Cuisinart coffee maker sits on the counter, and in the corner above it, several of Tiana's family photographs are displayed against wallpaper patterned with lilies and crowns.
The sliding door to the vanity and bathroom features a decorative pattern; however, beyond the door, this area of the room is very similar to all the other rooms at the resort — the floor tile and vanity are the same as those found in the standard rooms. One significant difference is the impressive mirror, which features a gold detail incorporating Tiana and Naveen's initials. Beside the vanity area are a full-length mirror, closet, luggage stand, extra pillows and blankets, an iron and ironing board, a hair dryer, and a wastebasket.
The Standout Feature: Illuminated Headboard Art
The most exciting feature of the redesigned room is the illuminated art above the headboards. One light setting simply illuminates the artwork from the front, while another activates a black light behind it, transforming the bayou scene from day to night. It is a spectacular and visually striking effect.
The Verdict
Compared to many recent room remodels across Walt Disney World, the new Royal Guest Room still includes a considerable amount of storytelling and themed detail. However, it just does not offer the same level of inspired theming and classic charm as the room it directly replaced.
Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside recreates the charm and tranquility of rural Louisiana, featuring winding bayous, stately plantation-style mansions, and relaxed Southern hospitality along the Sassagoula River. As one of Walt Disney World's Moderate Resorts, it offers guests a scenic escape complete with tranquil walking paths and water taxi service to Disney Springs.
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