Disney began offering horse-drawn carriage rides throughout two of its resorts several years ago. The carriage rides go through the Port Orleans resorts but you have to meet at the dock at Port Orleans Riverside. They suggest you arrive 15 minutes early. However, I suggest if you don't have dinner plans, arrive earlier and go to the food court at Riverside and get yourself a delicious southern meal. We did this and were surprised at how many choices there were for dinner!
So when the time for our carriage ride came, we met our driver and his black horse named Dan.
The driver was very friendly and answered any questions we had along the way.
We had the choice to ride through the Riverside resort or the French Quarter. We chose Riverside since we were staying at the French Quarter.
For 30 minutes we enjoyed the quiet ride along the Sassagoula River and throughout the resort.
We learned that our horse, Dan, was one of about 90 in Disney World. They can be visited at their stables at the Fort Wilderness Campground.
The $35/hour pricetag for the carriage ride is well worth the money. And if you choose, you can bring along your own alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage. They don't take credit cards for payment because the driver takes your payment. You can pay with your Disney Resort room card or pay by cash.
Anyone can make a reservation for the carriage ride. You don't have to be a resort guest.
I would strongly recommend reservations because this activity is very popular and very reasonably priced.