Back in the days when Disney was really packed (summer 1997 and 1998) POR was always full in the summer. The resort bustled. You always had neighbors above you or below you, beside you and behind you. Here are some hints that we found:
1. Get up early and have an early breakfast. That way you can be at the parks when the open. Eat breakfast in the food court. It might look busy, but the food court has lots of seating.
2. If you take a break in the day, this is a good time to grab lunch at the foodcourt. Most folks stay in the parks.
3. If you do take a break and don't have a PS anywhere, eat dinner at the food court before going back to the parks. It will not be busy!!
4. Boatwright's is a great place for dinner. Be sure to get your PS. My DH gets the jambalaya, I get the prime rib and my DD had a yummy chicken dish.
5. The food court will be busy from 9 PM to close as folks come back from the parks. If you go during this time, just be prepared for busyness. We love to get ice cream late at night.
6. If the main pool is too busy, use the quiet pools.
7. If there's a long line for the boat to DD take the bus instead. It's faster. Take the boat another time.
8. Catch the park buses in the morning at the South Depot.