10 Best Things About Shades of Green in 2021

Shades of Green, Walt Disney World’s military only resort offers so many great benefits that it is hard to keep this list to just 10!

The biggest which is a given and often goes unsaid is that Shades of Green is located right in the middle of the Magic, an Armed Forces Recreation Center right on Disney property!

This fact is so basic that it didn’t get put on the list, but let’s jump right in and see the Top 10.

(Updated Aug 2021) – Sadly some of our Top 10 are still currently unavailable due to Walt Disney World’s reduced operations. Deleted FastPass+ which is not coming back.

1. Constant dependable price

The best thing about Shades of Green is its constant dependable price structure. Shades has just 3 rate categories, which are based upon pay grade. The more junior members (E1 to E-6) pay significantly less per night (right around $139 based on room type), while more senior members pay somewhat more (around $169-$179)(FY20 Rates).

Shade’s rates are constant year-round and have risen very little through the years (Except for the last 2 years which have seen a $30 increase overall). In comparison, Disney World has numerous price seasons throughout the year with prices for each individual room varying up to 2 times the cheapest rate during the more expensive times of the year.

Shades of Green’s Regular Rates

Shades of Green’s Price Compared to Disney

2. Discounts

On top of their great rates, Shades offers some very good discounts and packages during the slower times of the year.

These discounts are from 10 to 20 percent off the regular rates and sometimes include free breakfast for 2.

Taking advantage of these discounts can save a large amount of cash during your WDW vacation.

Shades of Green’s Discounts and Packages

 3. Biggest rooms

Shades of Green has the largest standard guest rooms on Walt Disney World property.

At 480 Square feet Shades of Green’s rooms are among the roomiest to be found on the entire Walt Disney World Resort. Guest amenities in Shades of Green’s oversized, standard guest rooms include two queen size beds and a single sleeper sofa. Each standard guest room features either a private balcony or patio, with two chairs and a table.

Shades of Green Guest Rooms are comparable to the Disney Deluxe Resorts such as the Polynesian. The views from most every room are spectacular. Views throughout the resort are unique and interesting. The lush tropical landscaping provides an incredible backdrop.

Shades of Green’s Rooms

4. Great Atmosphere

Shades of Green is a very tranquil resort, during the day the pools and grounds are used lightly. With 586 rooms it is a comparatively small resort, Disney’s Value and Moderate Resorts have up to over 2000 rooms and can be very hectic all day!

On average I’ve found over the years that Shades of Green’s guests are much more friendly to, and considerate of each other. After all, we are all part of the same big family!

Guests more often than not, greet each other in passing, ask how you’re doing, or strike up conversations. While at the Disney resort guests will just pass each other by without even looking at each other, much less saying “Hi.”

5. Ticket Sales Office

Shades of Green has a Military Ticket Office, just like the one at your local base.

At the Ticket Sales Office you may purchase Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets as well as all other varieties of Disney World tickets, plus tickets for other local attractions like: Universal Studios Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, and many other Orlando area attractions.

Prices at the Shades of Green Ticket Sales Office are comparable to those that you’d find at your local Base MWR Ticket Office.

Shades of Green’s Ticket Office

The Shades of Green Ticket Office now ships

6. Two Great Pools

There are two very beautiful outdoor pools at Shades of Green.

Both pools are located in the original Magnolia Wing. Both pools are heated and handicap assessable, the Magnolia Pool features zero entry walk in and both pools have assistive lift devices.

The Mill Pond Pool which is formed in the shape of the Mickey Mouse head icon has a water slide and kids splash/play area. The Mill Pond is located at the rear of the Magnolia Wing. Evergreen’s is conveniently located next to the pool for snacks and drinks.

 

The Magnolia Pool is located on the side and near the front of the Magnolia Wing. Chip n’ Dale’s Deli is located nearby for snacks and drinks. The hot tub is also located here.

Shades of Green’s Pools

7. AAFES Store

You’ll find almost anything you need at great prices. From snacks and breakfast staples to all kinds of drinks, plus lots of DIsney souvenirs at awesome prices. The AAFES Store is worth a stop to stock up even if you are not staying at Shades!

The Shades of Green AAFES Store

AAFES Store Items and Prices

8. Extra Magic Hour

Note: Extra Magic Hours were discontinued in conjunction with the 2020 closure. But their replacements have been announced.

Soon, Shades of Green’s guests will be  allowed to participate in Walt Disney World’s Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours.

Shades of Green guests will be eligible for the new Early Entry benefit that replaces Morning Extra Magic Hours, which ended when Disney World closed for covid in 2020. Early Entry will be available 30 minutes prior to regular theme park hours at every theme park every day.

In addition, guests staying at Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resorts at Walt Disney World including Shades of Green will also be able to enjoy Extended Evening Hours on select nights in select theme parks. Extended evening hours will begin in early October 2021.

Shades of Green Guest Disney Benefits

9. Package Delivery

Another little known benefit of staying at Shades of Green and the Disney Resorts is Package Delivery to your Resort.

Anything that you buy in the Disney theme parks or at Downtown Disney can be delivered to your resort by Disney. This keeps you from having to lug your purchases around all day.

When making a purchase, simply ask for package delivery. You’ll fill out some info and then be on your way. Your purchase will be bagged up and will arrive at Shades of Green the after 1:00 PM following day. Pick up at the front desk.

This works great as long as you will still be staying at your resort the next day. But if you’ll be checking out the next moring, you still have an option. You can have your theme park purchases delivered to the park’s entry gates immediately for the same day pick up on your way out.

Note: Package Delivery is currently not available.

Shades of Green Guest Disney Benefits

10. Java Café

The Java Café is the Hidden Gem at Shades of Green. This small counter service location at one side of the lobby is the perfect spot to grab your favorite Starbuck’s beverage and sweet breakfast treat on your way to the Disney World theme parks!

The Buffet breakfast at the Garden Gallery gets backed up in the morning with sometimes long lines of people waiting to be seated. Besides a big, heavy buffet breakfast will just slow your morning park touring down!

Shades of Green’s Restaurants

Whats your Favorite?

Share your favorite thing about Shades of Green in the comments below!