FQ vs Riverside
We came back from 5 days at Riverside today (boo-hoo!!) and we have stayed at French Quarter twice previously. We have enjoyed both sides a lot, especially the boat to downtown. FQ is a smaller resort, so the amenities are smaller too (food court, game room, store, no sit down restaurant) although you are able to use all amenities at Riverside (and vice versa if you stay at Riverside). The pool at French Quarter is cool but smaller, we did not use the pool at Riverside but it looked nice. There are also smaller "quiet" pools around the resort at Riverside, there is only the main pool at French Quarter. Both food courts are good, we had fresh cooked food each meal, not like Pop Century where my waffles had sat around for awhile and were cold and rubbery. We had the king room at Riverside and there was more than enough room for my husband and I. We were in Alligator Bayou (building 36) and it was comfortable, clean and quiet. Looking around the room, it looks like more than enough room for us to put a trundle bed and a porta-crib when we go next year with our kids.
I don't think you can lose on either side, but I do think that if you are looking for more things to do and a slightly larger feel to your resort, then Riverside is your best bed. If you want a smaller resort with a more personal feel, then go for the French Quarter. I rate them both as top notch resorts!
p.s. - the hot tub at Riverside is being completely refurbished, it was completely torn apart while we were there. If you are looking for a bubbly soak, you will want to go with French Quarter!