Is Shades of Green Tax Free?

If you’re a member of the military or Department of Defense (DoD) and planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, you may be wondering if Shades of Green, the resort exclusively for military members and their families, is tax-free. The short answer is yes, but let’s dive into the details.

First, let’s talk about Shades of Green. It’s located on Walt Disney World property, near the Polynesian Village Resort and the Magic Kingdom theme park. Walt Disney World’s monorail is a short walk away at the Polynesian, which makes it easy to get to the Magic Kingdom or EPCOT theme parks. Bus service is available to all theme parks, including Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. form Shades of Green.

Shades of Green offers guests a variety of amenities and activities, including two pools (the Magnolia Pool and the Mill Pond Pool), a fitness center, and dining options like Manginos Steakhouse, the Garden Gallery buffet, the Express Café, the Java Café (Starbucks coffee), and Evergreens Sports Bar. You can also purchase tickets to Disney theme parks and other Orlando attractions at the ticket sales office.

Now, let’s talk about the tax situation. Shades of Green is exempt from certain taxes, including state sales tax and local resort taxes, because it’s an Armed Forces Recreation Center and is considered a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facility. You will also find a Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) store and gift shop on property, where all purchases are tax free.  This means that military members and their families can enjoy their vacation without worrying about paying taxes on their room or purchases at the resort.

However, it’s important to note that not all purchases during your vacation will be tax-free. For example, if you purchase items outside of Shades of Green, such as at the theme parks, those purchases will be subject to taxes.

To stay at Shades of Green, guests must meet certain eligibility requirements, including being a member of the military or DoD and having a valid military ID. Additionally, guests can only make reservations at Shades of Green up to a year in advance, and availability is based on a first-come, first-served basis.

It’s also important to note that Shades of Green offers military discounts on room rates and other amenities, which can help make your vacation more affordable. And if you’re looking to stay at other Disney resorts, such as the value resorts like the Disney’s All-Star Resorts or the Disney’s Pop Century Resort, you may still be eligible for military discounts as well, through the Disney Armed Forces Salute.

Shades of Green offers standard and pool view rooms, which sleep 5, that feature: queen beds, a sleeper sofa, a patio or balcony, mini refrigerator, coffee maker, ironing board, hair dryer, and safe. Bathrooms are either split, with the sinks separate from the shower and toilet area or one in single room.

Though not technically a golf resort, Shades of Green is located right between Disney’s Palm and Magnolia Golf Courses, with the clubhouse just steps from the lobby. The Magnolia Spa is available with a tempting selection of massages, facials, body treatments and spa packages.

Overall, if you’re a member of the military or DoD and planning a vacation to Central Florida and Walt Disney World Resort, Shades of Green is a great option to consider. Not only is it conveniently located and offers a variety of amenities, but it’s also tax-free and offers military discounts. And with easy access to the other Disney theme parks and nearby attractions like Universal Studios at the Universal Orlando Resort and Sea World, you’re sure to have a fun-filled vacation in Orlando.

Shades of Green is open to military personnel and their supporters: current and retired active duty, reserves, national guard, coast guard, DoD civilian employees and other military categories. It is possible to sponsor rooms for friends and family members who are not eligible. A valid military ID must be presented at check-in.

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