This page is for General Site Comments and Questions about Shades of Green.
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I’ll get back to you as soon as I can!
We waited over 40 minutes at Manginos for food that we never got. It’s problematic for diabetics and hypoglycemics. We were a party of 3. There were three other parties in the restaurant so it wasn’t full. No manager around. Bad service
So sorry to hear that J.
Thanks for the trip report!
are the disney military discounts availbe to widow of retired colonel ,lifetimer in army
Hi Heather,
As long as you have not remarried and have a current military ID.
my mom was turned away last may. she is a widow of a dod person . shades said she no longer could stay there very rudely. she was able to stay even though my dad died fourteen years ago that was until last may. please look into this for me. she has dads military id. thanks Charlie reed
Hi Charlie,
Was your dad retired military, drawing retirement after 20 years of service? Does she have a valid (not expired) surviving spouse ID?
You’ll have to look into this for her with Shades of Green management, sorry I don’t do that.
My husband is a veteran. Not retired and not disabled. Are we eligible to stay at shades of green
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for his situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Hi! Can the discount MYW tickets be purchased by Veterans (not retired, not disabled) from Shades of Green by phone in the month of January for use in April? Or are the discounted MYW tickets available all months for veterans?
Hi Melissa, you can just purchase in Sept and Jan, but use all year (They expire 14 days after first use).
Hi ! I’m a veteran too, and was planning to go in September. I currently have an annual pass, but was wanting to sponsor a friend’s tickets…can I do this if we’re staying at SoG? Additionally, if I end up purchasing tickets like Melissa asked above but don’t activate until later, what documents would be needed at the park ticket window? Just still show my DD214?
Thank you so much 🙂
Hi Becky,
As a non-retired veteran you are eligible to purchase the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets (not the Disney Armed Forces Salute ones) while staying at Shades of Green. There are no limits or activation on the regular tickets as there are on the Salute ones. Just buy them and use as needed, whenever, for whomever you’d like.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
And: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
Do the stars and stripes tickets have to be activated? Will they (or the numbers) be mailed to me so I can link to MDE and get fast passes? Will be staying at SOG with party of six for six days so AFS tickets woundn’t be enough days.
Hi Linda,
The Stars and Stripes Passes are length of stay passes which expire on the day after their length after purchase, i.e. a 6-day expires 7 days after purchase. They include park entrance, hopping, and Water Park Fun and More.
I’m now sure how Shades is handling that or if they are selling them via phone.
Have you compared the Stars and Stripes to the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets? (which I know they ship)
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
A 6-day Stars and Stripes ticket is $385. An equivalent MYW ticket is $407 if purchased at SOG or $442 from Disney. That’s a significant difference for six people.
Your statement that Star &Stripes tickets are length of stay contradicts the ticket staff at SOG? Customer service at SOG. says that they are only good for the amount of days you purchase, but must be used during the length of stay period.
Example. I arrive on a friday and will leave late tuesday.. By your statement if I bought a 4-day pass it would be good for 5 days (friday, saturday sunday monday and tuesday). SOG says NO. It is only good for 4 days and I can use it any 4 of the 5 days I am there, Who is correct???
I called several times and re-asked this question.for clarification.
Thanks for any help[ you can give me.
Hi Arlene,
Both Shades and I are correct, though we are perhaps saying it in different ways .To clarify A 4 day pass is valid for 5 days from the date of purchase. But ONLY for 4 day’s entrances! This allows you to take a down day. You can not use a 4 day ticket for 5 days of entrances!
I ordered them on 10 FEB for a stay starting 30 JUN and Shades is mailing them to me. I needed 7 day tickets for four people so this was my best option.
I’m going to Disney with my 3 sisters and their families in October. I am eligible to stay at SOG, and would like to book a room for myself and 3 additional rooms for my sisters. Am I allowed to book 1 room for myself, then sponsor 3 additional rooms, or am I only permitted to book a total of 3 rooms? Thanks for creating and updating this amazing website!
Hi Pam,
You can sponsor 3 rooms on top of yours, with a spouse you can do more. See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Sponsors.html
Can I use visa gift cards to buy my Disney Military Salute tickets at Shades of Green or my base ticket office? Thank you for all your information!
No, sorry Danielle.
Disney gift cards only are for Disney locations (at WDW, DLR, Disney store locations and online). Shades and Base Ticket Offices are not part of the Disney company and you are paying them for the tickets not Disney.
if you buy a 5 day hopper pass, can you let another person use one of the five days – if you don’t use it at all that day?
No, sorry Cindy.
All Disney tickets whether military or not are non-transferable. Disney has procedures inlace to prevent ticket sharing.
Hi! My husband is a 100% Disabled Veteran. Can my children and I stay at SOG without him or does he need to be with us?
Thank you!
As long as you have a current military spouse ID card Jan.
Well, that’s weird… the answer that popped up on my e-mail says my husband has to be there, but then on the site, there is this answer above. Thank you for getting back to me!
Sorry,
I put the wrondg answer initially, I was thinking of a different situation and then edited my response right away. That’s why the difference.
Hi Steve,
Thanks for the great site! I called Shades of Green and explained that I am a Reservist and would like to sponsor a room for my brother (civilian). I asked if I needed to book my brother’s room or if my brother needed to book his own room. The reservation agent for SOG said that HE needed to book his room. But, as I’m looking around more and more it looks like I need to book his room under my name and use my credit card. What have you done in the past? Thanks!
Hi there,
Thanks so much!
I would think that he should book it himself or give you his credit card info to do it for him, as the deposit goes towards the room charge. They don’t expect you to pay for all the room as you are sponsoring a non-eligible person’s stay.
Hi! We just got back from a 5 night stay at Shades of Green. My family of 5 absolutely loved it! The pools were great, having SOG transit and Disney transit right across the street was wonderful. Breakfast was delicious every morning and we enjoyed Manginos as well. The rooms compares to Pop Century were spacious and clean. We will definitely be back.
Awesome Alaina, thanks for your comments!
do you know if there is a bike rack to lock bikes at the polynesian if we wanted to ride our bikes from the shades of green to the polynesian?
I don’t recall ever seeing a bike racks at WDW Cathy (except at Fort Wilderness Campground).
I just googled and saw a couple resorts do, but didn’t see anything on the Poly.
Perhaps you can check with http://www.tikimanpages.com/poly/
Has the shades of green overflow rate been discontinued?
The last time I checked with them they still offered it. But remember they need to be full on one of the nights during your stay.
I’m curious to know how I would go about getting a room assignment at SOG? On our last visit we had the furthest room from the entrance which was exhausting for our three kiddos after a long day at the parks! Can I ask in advance or is it assigned during check-in?
HI Jordana ,
Just ask when making your reservation on the phone, or there is a block on the online reservation form to make your requests. They have always fulfilled the ones that I have made (paln wing, magnolia wing, newly renovated palm wing room, etc.).
If I have 4 children under 18 can my spouse and I still stay in a regular room with our family of 6? It says maximum occupancy is 5, but is that 5 adults? Thanks!
That’s 5 people Danielle.
There are 2 beds and a very small couch single.
I just need you to clarify something for me regarding the Stars and Stripes Pass.
If we are staying at SOG or a WDW resort for 5 nights, and purchase a Stars and Stripes 4 day pass, does that mean that we can go to 4 days of theme parks AND an additional 4 days of water parks (as with the $230 Salute tickets), or ONLY 4 days of parks (theme and/or water)?
Thank you so much for all the information you’ve gathered here! I was spending hours trying to compare discounted WDW stays and SOG. I’m thrilled I found your website!
Hi there M.R.
Thanks so much, I love doing it.
I recently made some weeks to the Stars and Strips page based on some changes over the years by Shades. Based on your questionI see I left some crucial info out.
The Stars and Stripes Tickets are essentially length of stay passes. They are only available for use for the number of days purchased, not a number of park days and a number of WPF&M visits as the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets are.
So a 4-day S&S is good for 4 days of entering the theme parks with hopping ability plus entering any WPF&M venue (no limit on the number of times or venues).
So in the same day you could (if you had time) visit the Magic Kingdom, hop to Epcot, go back to the Magic Kingdom, go to Disney Quest, then go to both water parks, and play 9 Holes of Golf at Disney’s Oak Trail 9-Hole Golf Course. Then do the same thing the following days of your ticket.
But once that 4th day is over the ticket is non-functional, unlike the Magic Your Way tickets which have 4 park days and then 4 individual visits which can be used on the same or different days that park days.
Hope that clears it up.
Thank you! Cleared things up perfectly!
I posted a comment yesterday re: 4 day hopper passes @ 196.00 I questioned one extra ticket in park. I know that at ticket office in park you can add another day does that also vapply to military? Once tickets are activated how are they going to know what ticket was purchased? I know when we were in Aneheim using military hopper passes wecwe offered upgrade for another day and it was not 100 per adult. This is my only deliemma with these tickets bc in the book the easy guide to your first Walt Disney visit it states that a 5th day ticket is 10.65 so you can see my confusion as I know this price is for one theme park we will have already seen all 4 parks will just have to decide which park we want to go back to. Please email me with suggestions. Thanks
Hi Patti,
You are mixing apples and oranges.
First there are two very different kinds of Disney Military Discount tickets: the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are the first and then the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets (at WDW) and the Regular Military Discounted Park tickets (at Disneyland) are the others.
The Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are highly discounted and have very strict rules. They are 4-day at WDW and 3-day at DLR. They absolutely can not be extended, only upgraded to an annual pass.
The Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets (at WDW) and the Regular Military Discounted Park tickets (at Disneyland) are exactly the same as the general public tickets and are only slightly discounted for the military. These come in 1-10 days at WDW and 1-5 days at DLR and can have parking hopping and at WDW the water park options added for more money. These can have days added to them (if you buy a 4-day you can then go back and have more days added before you finish using it at the price difference between the two tickets, which on longer multi-day tickets is fairly low as the easy Guide indicated.
Re the easy Guide info, buying one multi day ticket for the number of days you need vs buying 2 tickets for the same number of days are totally different. All Disney tickets have the majority of the cost on the first few days. The difference in cost between a 4 and 5 day ticket as the easy Guide noted is low, but buying a 4-day and a 1-day you are paying for the most expensive day (the first) twice.
Your options for 5 park days at WDW are:
1 Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket plus a 1-day non-hopper, non-Magic Kingdom Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way ticket (MK or adding hopper to the 1-day is more) – $196 & $100 = $296 (equivalent general public price $392.99 + $103.31 = $496.30)
A 5-day Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way non-hopper ticket = $309 (full general public price $335.48)
A 5-day Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way hopper ticket = $372 (full general public price $403.64)
Please see this page to see all the price options for the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Hope this clears it up Patti!
Hi I’m looking to purchase the buy 2 get 3rd day free Universal pass but I don’t see aprice listed for that one. Can you let me know what it is
Sorry forgot to click notify
.
Hi Jenn,
Here is the post on the current 3 for 1 offer.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/universal-military-discounts/universal-orlando-2016-military-3-for-1-park-to-park-ticket-offer/
I have a medical machine that requires distiled water. Does the PX carry this or should I try to get some on my way in from the airport?
Hi Jack,
All they have is regular bottled water.
Thanks! I will try to get some on my way from the airport
I am planning a last minute trip to Disney World for my family in May. As an honorably discharged National Guard veteran with a DD-214. I know that the Shades of Green Property is only available for me in Sept. and Jan. However, .am I able to just get discount tickets with my veteran status?
Hi Lawrence,
As far as I know you need to be a guest of Shades of Green to buy tickets if you are non-retired.
My husband is a disable vet service connected but not 100% disabled can we receive any discounts?
Hi Angela,
Please see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
I followed that link, and many more, but I am still confused.. Specifically; I am a Disabled Vietnam Vet with a 50% rating. I do have a military ID giving full access to all bases… What category do I fit in?? Some requirements talk about less than 100% disabilities, while another line talks about having a military ID…
This whole site is confusing and hard to navigate
Thank you
I apologize… I failed to mention that my 50% rating is from the NAVY…. NOT the VA… My VA rating is much higher, but I do not remember what it is…
David my husband has a 100% service connected disability at a rating of 50%. We always get a military discount on rooms and I purchase the Disney salute tickets on a base and use them at Disney. We have taken advantage of this offer many many times. My husband has a blue military ID and I have a peach one 1173.
Hi Angela,
Thanks for tagging in! Yes, that’s because you guys have current IDs due to his status. Unfortunately many service connected disabled do retain the benefits that go along with keeping IDs.
Shades of Green is awesome.
Hi David,
I’m sorry that you are having trouble finding what you need. I do not see a prior comment by you so do not know what link you are talking about.
Did you try our discount finder (by category)? It is linked to from the site home page and the site menu.
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation. For the topic of Disney discounts you are considered a non-retired vet. You’d normally need to be actually retired from the military or 100% DAVPRM to qualify.
However there is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
We stayed six days last month and loved it. My question is if you will give out the exact recipe for the CADILLAC Margarita!!
Lisa, you’d have to contact Shades of Green for that…
If that is a drink offered at Shades, or Disney if not.
Hi, we’re thinking of joining my brother’s family (he’s the veteran) at SOG and might like to do a few things on our own. Do we need to show a military ID to use the buses or can we ride without him? Anywhere else we’d need to have a military ID besides when checking in with him and getting tickets?
Also, do standard rooms in the Magnolia wing have double sinks?
Thanks
Hi Barbara ,
You’ll be issued a resort ID to use on your own for the bus and purchases at Shades. The only thing you will not be able to do with this ID is purchase tobacco and alcohol from the AAFES Store a military ID is required for those.
I am a veteran with a disability rating from the V.A. .Can I get ticket discount ? I want tickets to Universal and sea world for my family and me. thank you
Hi Paul,
Only in the months of September and January IF you stay at Shades of Green through this program:
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Any updates on when Evergreens renovation might be complete? We are headed down in a few weeks and the kiddos love the arcade!
No intel as of yet Mike, but I’ll be there next week and will do an update.
Hey Mike,
Word from Shades employees is that renovations will run through the end of the month. But I peeked in and my thoughts are that this government contract will run over… still pretty tore up.
Ok thank you much for the update!
hi! we are planning on coming in september and were wondering two things :
my husband is honorably discharged, will we be able to get the military ticket?
and if so, is there a way to purchase ahead of time?
TIA!!
Hi Jessika,
Yes he’ll be able to buy all the discounted tickets that Shades of Green sells except the Disney Armed Forces Salute, which have strict eligibility requirements.
In place of these he’ll need to buy the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/ and http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html
I copied my question and your reply below.
Sorry to be a bother…. But thus is the first and only time I have ever been told that I am “Not retired”
My DD-214 shows me as on the permanent Retired list…
To clarify… as a 50% Navy disabled Vietnam Vet (80% VA disabled)… Military ID card carrying, individual, I am entitled to nothing other than the “Armed Forces Salute”?
Steve commented on Shades of Green Comments.
in response to David A Harrington:
I followed that link, and many more, but I am still confused.. Specifically; I am a Disabled Vietnam Vet with a 50% rating. I do have a military ID giving full access to all bases… What category do I fit in?? Some requirements talk about less than 100% disabilities, while another line talks about having […]
Hi David,
I’m sorry that you are having trouble finding what you need. I do not see a prior comment by you so do not know what link you are talking about.
Did you try our discount finder (by category)? It is linked to from the site home page and the site menu.
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation. For the topic of Disney discounts you are considered a non-retired vet. You’d normally need to be actually retired from the military or 100% DAVPRM to qualify.
Hi David,
Sorry for the confusion, you never stated that you were retired military! You only referenced a disability percentage. Many have that without being retired and refer to themselves in the way you did.
As long as you are retired any mention of disability is irrelevant. Disability only enters the equation for non-retired vets.
You are eligible for all Disney discounts because you are retired military.
Hi Steve!
I’m retired after 30 years service in US Army. Planning a trip to Disney in February 2017 with wife and kids. My sister and spouse live in Fl and will join us. Can they stay with us in Shades of Green?
Hi Louis,
Yes absolutely, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Sponsors.html
I have a 80 % Service Connected Disabilty. I am planning to take my son to Disney World late fall or early winter 2016. Can you tell me if there are discounted park passes and Hotel Accomodations available to me? Also any other Discounts or accomodations that might be availble. Thanks!
Hi Dan,
Make it fall, specifically September…
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Vietnam nam vet, 50 per cent disability honorably discharged 1967-69 . Why am I not eligible for shades of grey and federal employees non military are as well as civilians never in the military, military cadets, and other who have not been in the military. There are certain individuals with 60 70 80 per cent ratings worse off than those with 100
Hi Pat,
You’d have to take that up with the DoD for the official answer.
But to put my thoughts plainly, you worked for the company 2 years and quit. If you worked for Ford for 2 years, you would not continue to get company discounts on cars after you left. Same thing here, you have to work in the military (as cadets, DoD Civilians, and current military members do) to have benefits or have retired after a full career to retain benefits. I served 31 years to retain my benefits in retirement.
I had the list for the SOG Universal Orlando ticket. Looking at 3 day park to park for 3 adults and 1 child. I’m trying to find out if it is the price in the green box (SOG) or the gate w/tax price next to it. I have been trying to get an answer from the ticket office but still haven’t heard back. I know they are very busy and I am trying to be patient but I really want to get back to them with my order form. Any info you can give me on the cost of 3 day park to park for 3 adults and 1 child (8) for June 27-30 would be very much appreciated.
HI Gail,
The Gate Price is the normal price the general public pays at the theme park. It is only shown so you can see the savings you get by buying at Shades of Green
Hi we are visiting soon and we were wondering what discounts if any a 100% disabled vet can get? Also if they have wheelchairs for rent. Thank you
Hi there,
100% service connected 100% disabled vets with the DVPRM code on their military issued ID are eligible for all discounts.
Se the posts below for more info.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
This company has military discounts on scooters and wheelchairs: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discounts/military-discounts-on-scooter-rentals-at-walt-disney-world/
Was just reading through the Shades of Green getting around paying the parking fee page, and noticed that you say there are buses to all the theme parks from Downtown Disney. This is no longer true, and hasn’t been for some time. You may want to remove that tip from the page.
Thank you.
Hi Sharon,
You are correct!
Thanks so much I appreciate your touching base on that.
Thanks again Sharon,
I can’t find where I say that. I’ve looked at several transportation pages. Could you give me the link to the page you saw that on?
Thanks, Steve
Found it, thanks again!
I read the very useful information you gave on SOG overflow rates. Do you know if you can choose the Fort Wilderness campground (not cabin but campsite) when booking an SOG overflow rate and get a discount? Thank you!
Hi Sara,
I’m not aware of any military discount on the campsites as they are (relatively) cheap for WDW.
Thank you!
Hello I am travelling from the UK and would like to visit Magic Kingdom (Disney World) with my family. I will be staying with some relatives in Orlando, I am currently a serving member of the British military. I have been told that I would be able to get military discount but I am not sure where to purchase the tickets. Can I buy it on the day at the park? are you able to help.
PLease see this page Flo: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Military-Discounts/Discount-Finder/Foreign-Military-Member-Discounts.html
Do you sell discounted Discovery Cove tickets? If so, how much?
No I don’t Krystal. I am a military retiree who runs this website to help my community.
Check your bast ticket office, the orlando ITT or Shades of Green.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/On-Base-Tickets.html
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Orlando-ITT-Ticket-Office.html
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Military-Discount-Ticket-Sales.html
I was wondering if I am able to buy and activate the tickets now and use them for later? And when you are activating them do you need all the people’s id that will be using the tickets there?
A relative will be in florida this upcoming week and wanted to grab the tickets for us early (we are planning on going in october).
Lillian, the tickets sold by Shades of Green are activated already. Your relative should of course check when purchasing, but you’ll be all set for your upcoming trip, as long it ends prior to 18 Dec 2016.
Forgive me, I am having trouble figuring out which category our family falls into for SOG rates. My husband is retired, do we go by his rank at retirement or are all retirees Category 3? Thanks!
Hi Katie,
You’ll go by his rank when he retired.
The retired in Cat 3 refers to retired DoD civilians
Thank you!!
Hi planning a trip to Disney World in August 2016. My fiancé is an non-retired veteran and has his dd 214’s. Is he eligible for discounted military tickets for the parks and if so how and where exactly do we obtain them?
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for his status.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Can you reschedule?
Is there a height limit for the splash play area and is it enforced? Would an older, taller, respectful of little children be able to use these smaller slides and area if they choose to?
Also, are there pathways outside to get from Palm Wing to pool areas?
One more question: are there ever room discounts for the month of April even if Easter falls during April?
Thank you for your help!
Hi Ella,
I’m not aware of a height restriction.
Yes you sure can walk outside from the Palm Wing to the Mill Pond Pool using walking paths and little bit of golf cart roads. Getting to the Magnolia Pool would require first going to the Mill Pond and then the entire remainder on golf cart roads and some across the grass, or a quick cut through the Magnolia Wing.
I don’t recall any discounts being offered in April 🙁
Hello,
I am trying to book through Shades of Green, but cannot find how to do so. I’m not sure if there is a link or phone number you can offer to me. I see a lot of information on your site about Shades of Green, but not how to book a room.
Also….is it a separate resort that is located at Disney?
Hi Susan,
You can contact Shades of Green Reservations at: (888) 593-2242.
Yes it is a DoD resort (not a Disney one) located on WDW property.
So I just called the Shades of Green and they said they no longer work with Disney on the overflow. 🙁
Thanks for the intel Jay. It really wasn’t a deal compared to the Disney Armed Forces Salute!
Steve I stayed SOG month of Apr 2016 6 days with large group of family reserved 6 rooms 3 under me DOD and 3 spouse upon arrival there was some confusion they indicated spouse also had to be Military or DOD they eventually said this time they will allow me the other 3 rooms but this is the policy no where does it say spouse has to meet SOG requirements other than being spouse, planning to go back in 2020 with family.
Hi Sal,
THanks, I believe you ran into a very less than knowledgable employee. Their website clearly outlines this policy, with no mention of the spouse needing to also be military, in fact it says a dependent spouse! That’s a oxymoron isn’t it if the they are military they are an military member not a spouse…
From Shades Site: “As an eligible Shades of Green guest, you may sponsor up to three rooms. In addition, a dependent spouse can also sponsor up to three rooms…” – http://shadesofgreen.org/sponsor.htm
Hi we are arriving at Disney September 30, being a non retired veteran can we still stay at SOG until October 5 , Disney typically allows you to take advantage of things as long as you check in within a promotion???
Hi Meagan,
You’d have to call Shades reservations to check on that: (888) 593-2242
At the ticket window at Universal Studios do they check for a military ID if a military discount ticket was bought?
It depends on the ticket Zaida.
The regular discount tickets, no they don’t, but the special 3 for 1 they do as you activate the ticket at the park.
Hi Steve! Quick question-I had emailed you but this seems to be a better place to ask my question. We are staying at SOG in November. Some of our family will be staying off-site at an Orlando timeshare. Would they be allowed to drive over to SOG one day to swim with us and have lunch? I wasn’t sure if that would be an issue at the SOG gate and if there would be any visitor parking that they could use at SOG? Thanks!
Hi Stacey,
They’d need to have a military ID to pass the security gate, or say they are going to the golf pro shop. There is usually plenty of parking in the golf course lot.
While I’m sure the policy is resort guests only, the pools are very lightly used during most of the day while people are in the parks. There is no ID check at the polls and dining as your guest is no issue at all.
Thanks so much Steve!
And thanks to you too Stacey! I got your present, very nice 🙂
I’m wondering if the Exchange sells diapers.
I’m every sure that they do Cindy.
Steve..
I want to take my Daughter, Son-in-law and Granddaughter to DW….
I have seen that you need an ID to get into the SOG parking lot… What if I stay at SOG while they go to the park… How do they get back in???
Thank you
They will be given resort IDs upon check in David. Also the golf courses which share the parking lot do not require a military ID.
Can an active duty member and spouse bring family friends (couple) to stay with them at shades of green? The friends are not active duty military or otherwise dod affiliated.
Absolutely JD, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Sponsors.html
Does shades of green have joining rooms that are pool side?
Yes they sure do Tonya.
Do I have to stay at Shades of Green to get the discount tickets for Aquatica?
Hi Billi,
Anyone who is eligible to stay at Shades of Green may use the ticket office without staying there.
if i buy my sister and i tickets using shades of green for universal and island of adventure with our friends and i cant make it how will she be able to get in if she does not have military I.D. but everyone else does?
or if i go get our tickets at the ICT on base where i am and i cant make it will she be able to go with everyone else if she is a civilian and everyone else has military I.D.
Hi Kira,
She’ll be fine with the other military members in the party. She will be their guest.
Hi Steve,
It sounds like Starts and Stripes passes can only be purchased at the SOG Ticket Office, Can we purchase these passes in advance so that we can make FP+ reservations 30 days out, or do we have to purchase Magic Your Way tickets in order to take advantage of the FP+ advanced reservations? Also, can our SOG confirmation number be linked to Magic Bands if we purchase them from the Disney Store? What about the Stars & Stripes passes…can they be linked to Magic Bands?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Lara,
Yes you can purchase the Stars and Stripes ahead, either buying the tickets and having them shipped, or through Shades’ pre-purchase program (45 days out) for pickup at check-in (the’ll email you the ticket numbers).
Shades reservations are not compatible with My Disney Experience, so can’t be linked but the Stars and Stripes can for FastPass.
Have a great trip.
I have two questions 🙂
I’ve heard there are rooms at SoG where you can watch MK fireworks from your balcony! Do you know which section I should request?
Also, what kind of coffee makers are in the rooms? Is there decent coffee in the dining facilities? Can I bring my own coffee maker if not?
Thanks for being so helpful!
Hi Erin,
There are rooms on the Magnolia Wing that you can see some of the fireworks over the trees. These would be on the North (Northwest actually) side. The Magic Kingdom is to the Northeast, with the Magnolia Golf Course, Grand Floridian Resort and part of the Seven Seas Lagoon in-between.
The Java Cafe has Starbucks in the lobby, highly recommended. In the room is a standard hotel type coffee maker, yuck…
Thank you! If we were on the top floor could you see the fireworks better? It sounds like a great way to spend our arrival evening.
The top floor would be best!
I do not know how much you can see over the trees as it is quite a ways away and I’ve not stayed in those rooms myself.
I do actually recall now seeing some of the fireworks from the 5th floor in the Palm wing.
When you call to reserve discuss it with the reservationist!
Hello. I have a Shades of Green Question. I understand that the sponsor of a room has to be present at time of check in when person they are sponsoring checks in; However….Can the person being sponsored check in on a subsequent date? (we were there 3 years ago for a wedding. Family checked in 1 & 2 days after we (their sponsor checked in). I am now reading something different on the site, and just want to clarify.
Thank you for your time,
Jennifer
Hey Jennifer,
Yes I do think that would be fine. I believe Shades issue is that they don’t want (can’t let) your guests check in prior.
SOG has the best breakfast buffet for the cost in Disney!!
It is great Bryan.
Hi Steve,
We are wanting to book two rooms for Shades. My husband(military member) and all the boys will stay in one room while I stay in the other room with my sister and niece. Will we fall under the sponsored room rate for the second room even though I will be in it with my sister and niece or will we still pay our regular Cat 1 rate? Thank you in advance!
Hi Celeste,
If you each call separately to make your own individual reservation, I believe you will each get the rate by rank.
For this Shades of Green for Veterans thing.
1.) Is it only for those who chose to get out before the 20 yrs, meaning if I’m still active service (Which still means I am a Veteran) can I use the offer with my active duty I.D.
2.) If not is there other programs we can use.
3.) In the article For the Shades of Green for veterans, there is a part that reads “…..maybe you found a better job or a position with more stability”.
That’s a pretty messed up statement to make. Who ever wrote that seems to be slapping active/reserve duty members in the face (even if it was unintentional). What they are basically saying is that my job sucks and it’s unstable. Not to mention it seems as if they think you can only be a Veteran if you are no longer serving. I would say I have a very fulfilling career that pays for my college tuition, my family’s cloths and meals, and gives us medical coverage…to name a few. So I would ask whomever wrote or is in charge of that Shades of Green for Veterans page to think of a re-write.
I have to apologize, I didn’t read the whole article and I own up to that. I did not know this was a military resort. But I stick with my comment about the re-write.
Dang Sam,
Take a deep breath will you.
First, as you later discovered Shades of Green is the military only resort located at Walt Disney World. It is open year round for you!
You after having serving for 20 years and retiring will be a Retired Military Member with a Retired Military Member ID.
Veteran is a civilian term (much misused) to describe anyone who has served, no matter for how long.
This post is solely directed at those who got out and the sentence you seem to have taken so much offense to is a polite way of saying “I don’t know why you quit.” I can’t fathom why someone would get out, I served 31 years, I’m trying to guess what the motivation might be to quit such an awesome career.
The problem which I try to politely address in the post is that many “Veterans” feel that they are entitled to the same discounts that a retired military member is.
Thanks for your comment AND service!
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Are non retired military only able to get the discount tickets during September and January?
Hi Melissa,
As I mention in the post on the Sept/Jan eligibility at Shades off Green (http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html), non-retired vets are eligible to use the ticket office.
There you can buy tickets like the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/ and other non-Disney tickets at the military discount rate with no tax.
But the Disney Armed Forces Salute and its tickets are a special deal with totally separate qualifications (http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html) and non-retired vets do not have the required ID to activate these tickets.
Is the offer for veterans with DD214 still available? I don’t see a date on that.
Hi Lisa,
see this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
We were there in January. I had read over all the shades of green information. My husband is a 30% disabled veteran. We have a timeshare and used that for our stay but drove out to shades of green for the discounted tickets; particularly Legoland which is a great discount. (They also offer a Hero Pass for disabled veterans which allows you to go right to the front of the line). The first day we arrived we had no problem gaining entry to the facility and got tickets with no problem. Three days into our trip we decided to add another park and went back to obtain tickets. We were denied entry and told that the discount tickets were ONLY for guests who were staying at Shades of Green. I informed the guard we were just there a few days ago and were sold tickets with no issue and asked her to call into the ticket office. She very rudely told me she had just spoken with them about a prior guest in the same situation and was told they could not purchase tickets. I personally called into the ticket office for clarification and could only leave a message which was never returned. I called the front office and they were not sure of the requirements and referred me back to the ticket office. To this day I am unclear if the guard was wrong or not and what the policy is! I’d LOVE clarification.
Hi Dorothy,
I will attempt to get clarification of you.
Hi there, I checked with my Shades Guru, who is on site right now and Shades confirms that you must be a guest to use the Ticket Office, if you do not have a current military ID.
i am a army vet.can i get discounts to stay at www campground?
Hi Mark,
WDW does not offer military discounts on the campground.
Are person with a DD214 status of Entry Level Seperation included in the Shade of Green passes. It was neither Honorable or Dishonorable.
Hi Donnie,
Non-Retired vets can stay at Shades of Green in the months of September and January. During their stay they are allowed to use the tickets office to purchase all tickets )except the Disney Armed Forces Salute which require a current ID to use) you can buy the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets then.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
I have a 14 year old daughter who eats vegetarian. We will be staying with you 9/7-9/10. We would love to have your buffet each night, but $15.95 is way too expensive for the few options she would eat. Is there something that would accommodate her so we could eat your buffet each evening?
Hi Maxwell,
You are a little confused, this is an informational website run by a retired military member for military members to get info on these discounts.
I’m not associated with Shades of Green.
I recommend you call Shades at (407) 824-3400.
My grandchildren are staying at SOG next week. Could I arrange to have a welcome basket/gift store items sent to their room?
Hi Karen,
That will be a nice surprise!
You can contact Disney Floral and Gift http://disneyworld.disneyfloralandgifts.com/home.do
My husband and I were there this week, Sept.11,2016 to buy park tickets. He served 12 years, is not medically retired , but has 90% disability rating and had his DD214. We were told at the gate that management has recently changed the rules and we were not allowed on site to buy tickets. We were shocked and very disappointed. Please share. I would hate for other veterans to think they can buy tickets there in September and be turned away like we were. I have written to management about this, but doubt I will hear a response. I
Thanks Kelley,
I was recently made aware of this and had changed my post for non-retired veterans.
Thanks for sharing!
Hello, We stayed at Shades a few years ago with our daughters family and a friend from Japan. We ate at the evening buffet in the lower level of Shades. I have been looking to see if that option is still available to eat in for the evening meal and cannot find it listed anywhere.
Hi Sandra,
Yes the Garden Gallery still has the dinner buffet: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Garden-Gallery.html
Two questions regarding the Shades of Green program for non-retired veterans:
1) What is the room cost – I tried clicking the “click here” but it didn’t link to anything
2) Does this program have variable dates or is it always for the full months of January and September?
Hi Richard,
Not sure what the issue was, there is no link to prices on the Shades of Green Veterans page that says click here. The only link that says click here is to get a copy of your DD-214.
On every Shades of Green page on the site, including the Shades of Green Veterans page there is a menu of all Shades of Green links (near the bottom with the green header).
But here is the link to pricing: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Roomrates.html
Yes this program is only for the months of January and September. This is when they have excess capacity.
What rooms are closest to the Polynesian? Thank you!
Hi there Elizabeth,
all rooms at Shades are essentially on the far side of the lobby from the Poly. The Palm Wing is actually a little closer, but there are no exits on that side.
For the shortest walk ask for a room closest to the lobby.
If you are just going to SoG to buy tickets, do you have to pay $7 to park?
No you sure don’t, just say you are there for the ticket office and they will give you a temp pass and direct you to parking.
Do you know if the exchange store sells strollers or would you recommend renting a stroller?
Hi Stacie,
They do not and I do recommend renting from outside companies vs. Disney. See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discounts/military-discounts-on-stroller-rentals-at-walt-disney-world/ and http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/military-discounts-on-disney-world-stroller-rentals/
Can I buy cases of water at the Shades of Green Exchange?
I do believe that you can Dave.
Thanks for your very thorough website. It is indeed a great service to the military community.
On regard to transportation: we’ve already decided to rent a van for our family’s November trip. Are your transportation pages still accurate? Looks like some parks are more convenient to drive than wait for bus. Is it still true that based on its proximity to the Magic Kingdom lot there wouldn’t be a parking fee? Any other personal recommendations?
Yes, all up to date Matt.
My family prefers to drive on property. Most destinations are 15 minutes form everywhere else, unless you need to drive in the vicinity of the Disney Springs traffic which can bog you down.
Thank you!
Hello – my husband is currently serving in the British Military and I am a veteran – would I be right in thinking that we are able to get military discount tickets for the Disney resort with our military ID?
Very much looking forward to hearing back from you
Kindest regards
Jules McColl
Hi Jules,
Thanks for checking out the site!
The only 2 discounts for non-US military are: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/non-us-military-members-eligible-to-stay-at-shades-of-green/ & http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
But both are for those serving with US forces and require a US issued ID like the one at the bottom left of this page: http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
Do you need reservations at Mangino’s? We will be there at the beginning of January for a race weekend and I am not sure if I need to make a reservation for dinner the night before the race? We are staying at Shades of Green.
Hi Nancy,
I’ve never waited more than 5 minutes for a table at Manginos. I don’t think you’ll have a problem.
Does UK forces get any discount please.
Hi Lynne,
Thanks for checking out the site!
The only 2 discounts for non-US military are: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/non-us-military-members-eligible-to-stay-at-shades-of-green/ & http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
But both are for those serving with US forces and require a US issued ID like the one at the bottom left of this page: http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
Hello Steve,
Thank you for the excellent and informative site! We have stayed at Shades several times and love it but it has never occurred to me until seeing a post about the aafes store accepting the star card. Can the military star card be used to pay for your room at check in and for dining in the SOG restaurants?
Hey Catherine,
Thanks so much! No, unfortunately it’s only good at the AAFES store.
Hi,
How late do the shuttles run back to SOG? Will it be late enough to watch the firework shows? Also, is there a grocery store or anything near by within walking distance to get groceries?
Yes absolutely you’ll be able to watch the fireworks shows at the parks.
See our Shades’ Transportation Page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Transport.html it has a link to the current schedule
Good Evening
I am a disabled vet Service connected at 50 percent va disability rating. Am I qualified to benefit from shades of green.
Hi Bob,
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans from Shades of Green that you qualify for. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Is there a microwave avaibile in your rooms?
Hi John,
No, Shades of Green does not have microwaves in the rooms. There are some located in the laundry room in each wing.
Hi. I’m a vet but staying at the Caribbean Beach Resort at WDW (no rooms were available at SOG). That being said, I was wondering if you could answer a few qs:
1. Can I use the food services at SOG even though I’m not staying there? Understand I cant charge the cost to my room and just need to show my military ID
2. What would be your recommendation to getting there from the Caribbean? Is it a long bus ride or do I need to take the monorail?
Thanks for the info
Steve in Dallas
Hey Steve,
Yes you sure can eat at Shades of Green without staying there. Many do.
Options for getting there:
Shades is walking distance from the Polynesian or the Transportation and Ticket Center (this is a little further). so get to one of these and hoof it. Take a bus to the Polynesian from any theme park or Disney Springs (buses do not go between resorts) or take the bus to the Magic Kingdom from your resort and then the monorail to the Poly.
Walking directions
Or potentially take the Shades of Green bus from the Transportation and Ticket Center, Animal Kingdom, or Hollywood Studios. You should be able to ride with just a military ID, but sometimes drivers have been known to refuse those without a Shades Resort ID.
Excellent Steve. Thanks for the info. Looking forward to it! Have a very Merry Christmas
Hi Steve!
Can you tell me approx. prices at AAFES store on beer/wine/milk etc. at SOG? Trying to decide if cheaper to have a few groceries delivered or just purchase on site at SOG?
Love your site BTW!
Hi Tiffani,
Thank you!!!
No, I’m sorry, I don’t have any current prices. But they are what you’d expect to pay at your local BX/PX/NEX/Shoppette, they are not jacked up prices and no sales tax of course.
Ok, Thanks, Steve. Hope you had a Merry Xmas 🙂
We are driving in early one morning to visit epcot and then checking into Shades of Green that afternoon. Is there any way to avoid paying for parking at both places that day? Thanks for your help!
Hi Renee,
No unfortunately there isn’t. Both are required charges.
Guests who park their vehicle at Shades of Green have to pay $7 per night to do so.
Shades of Green guests are required to pay the $20 daily parking fee for Disney’s theme parks.
The timing does not affect this.
HI, we are planning a Disney Trip for 2018 Leaving October 30th Returning November 6th give or take a few days either way. My husband was in the Military for 4 years then in the National Guard for 10 years after that. He did not retire from the Military but is receiving Military VA Disability Benefits monthly. He has a VA Military pictured ID that they gave him when he started receiving his VA Benefits, and he also has copies of his DD-214 papers. Would this qualify us for any Military Discounts at Disney. We would like to take our daughter and son in law with our 2 grandbabies and are looking for some discounts. Thank You in advance for any help anyone could give me.
Hi Kellie,
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. Unfortunately it is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Perhaps you could change your dates or for future reference.
what are all of the extension numbers for the spa, lobby, room service atc.
Hi Olivia
407-827-3529 Magnolia Spa
Front Desk 0
Sorry I don’t have room service, but all the extensions are printed on your room phone and there are speed dial buttons.
Steve,
Love your site, thanks for all the info. I will be traveling with friends that are retired military next December and staying at Shades of Green as their guest. I am not military related, but am wondering if I would be able to purchase items at the AAFES or would we have to have our “sponsors” accompany us with their military ID?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Larry,
You will be able to purchase everything you’s like at the AAFES Store by yourself with your resort ID except liquor and tobacco.
My husband has a VA Medical Card. Does that suffice for proof when I need to buy the Park Passes?
Hi Lajune,
No, I’m sorry a military issued ID is required. That is except if you are staying at Shades of Green in September or January using their veterans program. A DD-214 is required for that program.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
I am a non-retired veteran and I was honorably discharged as an E-4. I am eligible for any discount? Category #2 says only applies to E-6 thru E-9 if i read that correctly.
Hi Jose,
Thanks for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
You would be a category 3 when eligible during those months
I am not sure if you have answered this question or not but will the Stars & Stripes tickets link to the Magic Bands like the regular multi-day tickets?
Yes it sure will Kelly
Can my adult handicapped son that has a dependent ID card use it to buy tickets to the salute Disney world tickets? Will it still leave me able to buy 6 tickets too?
Hi Janice,
Non-spouse dependence are not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute. You or Dad would have to accompany him, at least to activate the tickets and you would need on yourself.
He can use the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets by himself, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
If you are not staying at SOG but are a non-retired veteran with DD214 in hand, can you still purchase the discounted Disney tickets?
Hi Alan,
Unfortunately as I understand their current policy you can not.
Steve,
I just got an email from Shades of Green saying that there are no blackout periods for the Military Salutes discounted tickets. Just thought you might want to verify that for all the folks on this site. Thanks for your great help on this site!
Hi there Hun,
Thanks so much! I currently have an email out to disney to confirm this and will post as soon as they get back to me.
Hi Steve,
I messed up, and it’s my own fault for not reading your blog beforehand! We are traveling to DW this coming October. I saw SOG was running some spooky savings in October. Well, I waited too long to call and missed the promotion! I didn’t realize they were limited time specials! I went ahead and booked at normal price. Any chance they’ll run October specials again, and will they let me take advantage of them if I already booked?
HI Betsy,
Bumper. No, typically they offer the discounts to fill (traditionally) low reservations periods as they fill up they refuse and then eliminate the discounts. I have seen individual dates be deleted and than added back while the discount was available, but can’t recall them ever bringing a discount back.
I have seen them cancel a discount and at the same time offer a new one with a new name and worse discounts. Keep an eye out. Go to the shades home page to check, while I do update my site as I discover changes I don’t look every day and only send a notice via email once a month.
Shades does say “for new reservations only’ but you can argue them into giving it to you or just cancel and call back later of do it online…
Hello Steve,
What a wonderful site! Thank you for compiling all this information. I am curious about the suites at SOG. We are thinking of visiting Disney as part of a large family gathering and the suites sound like a good fit. Are there many of them? The palm suite would fit almost all of us, but I have a feeling those get booked pretty far in advance. How soon should we be calling about reservations if we wanted to reserve some suites? Thanks for your time!
Hi Judith,
Thanks so much!
There are only a few suites and they do go early especially the biggest ones. Reserve as far out as possible (up to a year out is available). you can check availability by starting to make a reservation online. It will let you know if what you are looking for is available.
Ok, will do. Thanks for your help!
Does the Shades of Green Exchange carry Magicbands?
Not that I am aware of Ronald.
Almost all Disney merchandise locations do, or you can buy them ahead of time from the Disney Store online, here is the link: http://bit.ly/2l4MSfn
I am with the Canadian military and planning to go for vacation in Orlando ,I would like to know if I can also get Theme parks discounts tickets?
No sorry Marcel
The only 2 discounts for non-US military are: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/non-us-military-members-eligible-to-stay-at-shades-of-green/ & http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
But both are for those serving with US forces and require a US issued ID like the one at the bottom left of this page: http://www.cac.mil/common-access-card/
Marcel I replied to you previous identical question yesterday.
If you are stationed at a US base and have a US issued ID then yes you can. If you are just in the Canadian Forces, then no you should look for discounts from Canadian companies.
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Military-Discounts/Discount-Finder/Foreign-Military-Member-No-Discounts.html
What kind of coffee makers are in the rooms? Regular or keurig?
They were regular during my last stay Terry.
Can you make or do you need reservations?
Yes to both Carol. You can call or make reservations in the Shades of Green site
WE are taking children and grandchildren for spring break. We have a total of eleven people. Eight adults ( two adults ages 13 & 11) and three children (3 to 9). Can we buy tickets for all of us. Retired Officer.
Hi Tom,
The member (you) is eligible for 6 Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. The rest of your tickets will need to be the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets.
Please read these pages: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html and http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Also helpful: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/whats-the-right-military-discounted-disney-ticket-for-me/
Retired AF. Want to celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary at SOG with our sons. Will need 3 rooms for 8 days. Will be coming Spring Break. 3/25/17. Is there a chance we cannot get the rooms even if we call 1 yr. to the date of arrival? Is SOG ever booked up? This is very important to know for planning. Called SOG today and was told we can only book the rooms for 4 days & for the additional 4 days we must call back to reserve those. Is that true or can we reserve the 8 days when we call 1 year from date of arrival? Please advise as this is a very special occasion for us. Thanks.
Hi John,
They often fill to capacity but not a year out, save for the busiest times. (but the date you gave is less than a month away)
Never heard of the 4 days only. Could be because it is spring break (or because it is so close and you want 3 rooms). Call back and talk to someone else see if you get the same story.
My husband is a DOD civilian. We are sponsoring 2 more rooms. Can the sponsored guests also use the aafes store?
Hi Diana ,
Yes they sure can, except for alcohol and tobacco.
Does anyone know what type of coffee makers are in the Shades standard rooms?
My last time there they were drip coffee makers with the pouch supplied in the small foil packet JM.
We have been to SOG and stayed in the Palm Wing. My husband likes it kind of quiet, but we will have a couple free “pool” days this year and thought of staying in the Magnolia Wing. Are these rooms as nice as the Palm rooms? Smaller/Larger? We have 3 boys… 10, 12 and 17. Thoughts of people who have stayed in both before Please. Thank you!!
Hi Jeffrey,
I like rooms 101 to 113. See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/shades-of-greens-poolside-rooms/
The rooms are pretty much that same, I”m not aware of a major size difference, if there is it is slight.
Hi We want to stay at Shades of Green in November but have not seen any room discounts -Aren’t they usually offered by now? I think they were called Deck the Palms last year? Do you have any info?
Hi Arnold,
Yes we would normally see them by now, but Shades is getting ready to start a major renovation of their Magnolia Wing which will last 18 to 24 months.
Unfortunately this should negate their need to fill the last remaining rooms each month by offering discounts.
I am trying to determine what category I would fall into. I am a retired E-5, so do I fall into the Category 1 pricing? I also want to sponsor a family, will they get the category 2 pricing? I have a DOD ID card for Military Retirees.
Hi Keith,
As a retiree you fall into your pay grade category, in this case Cat 1. Guests of Cat 1 sponsors also pay that same rate.
Hi Steve,
I just called to make reservations for my family’s room and two additional rooms. My husband is an E5 PRTD ID holder. I was told only our room could be made under the Cat 1 and the other two rooms would need to be Cat 2.
Hi Lyndsay,
That is the appropriate charge: “Category #1 – E-1 thru E-5 and Cadets ( E-1 thru E-5 and Cadet Sponsor and dependents will receive the rate that applies to Category #1. Any additional sponsored rooms will receive the rate that applies to Category #2.)”
I saw your suggestion about making a reservation for dinner at Mangino’s restaurant on site. I called and they are on a first-come-first serve basis only. For future reference. This is for all 3 restaurants on site.
Thanks Karen!
Karen, I’ve just searched the site and can’t fine where I suggest to make reservations for Mangino’s. Do you by chance have the link to the specific page?
It was for Carol on February 18…her entire question is not there, but she asked you about Mangino’s restaurant and you gave it a good recommendation of how you were seated right at 5:00. She asked if she needed or could make a reservation and you said yes. I had just been told I couldn’t make one, so I called them directly and was told by automated message that they do not take reservations. I also called the main desk at SOG and she told me that none of the restaurants on site take them.
Can military veterans who are not staying at Shades of Green, but at another property utilizing the military discount, utilize the restaurants at Shades of Green?
Hi Sandy,
Retired Military with current valid Military IDs can.
I’m assuming you mean retired military, and not the civilian term veteran which can mean someone who only served for a short time.
I WAS HONORABLY DISCHARGED FROM THE MARINES IN 1971, AM I ENTITLED TO STAY AT SHADES OF GREEN?
THANK YOU
TOMMY
Hi Tommy,
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Question about Stars the Stripes tickets: we will be staying at a Disney resort for 6 nights. (Arrive in Orlando in the evening so that negates a park day the first day, and depart by noon on check out day so no park day then either.) That leaves 5 park days. How do the Stars and Stripes tickets determine length of stay? Number of nights booked? Number of days including check in/out days? We want to purchase 3 additional tickets in addition to our family’s allotted 5 day hopper military salute tickets. What would be the least expensive option? Military discounted tickets or Stars and Stripes?
Hi Rachelle,
I believe that Shades will want to see a copy of your reservation to determine the length. Usually number of nights booked.
The S&S are a pricer option and really only worth while if you are going to use the water park options heavily. The regular military tickets are probably your best bet.
Hello, Do you know if the Starbucks on site accept the Starbucks gift cards? I know at some resorts they do not accept these cards. Thank you
Hi James, I believe they do.
Do the room refrigerators have small freezers so we can freeze bottled water?
Hi Diana,
Yes they do have a little freezer.
1. if the military member’s Spouse uses one of the Salute Tickets may he/she purchase a total of 6 tickets?
2. The Stars & Stripes tickets require Military ID AND Resort ID to purchase. This would negate the ability to purchase more than 60 days ahead in order to make FP+ reservations; true??
Hi Margaret,
Yes the total is 6 whether the member or spouse activates the tickets.
Shades knows you are staying there based upon your reservation and will sell then to you when you provide eligibility during the pre-purchase process.
OOPs, you are staying at a Disney resort. You can send a copy of your Disney reservation.
if my husband was honorably discharged ( a veteran) but not active or retired, can we get a discount on tickets as well or just the room in January or September?
Hi Summer,
You can use the ticket office, though he is not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets. He can however buy all of the other tickets they sell like the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets, Universal, SeaWorld, etc.
see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Can you tell me if the golf course was open for use in May of 1973 ? If so would there be a record of someone who had a hole in one during that time ? I have a Pewter mug from that time that my husband won at Disney World that year but I’m not sure just which course he played on at that time. Is there a way to find out? His name was Joe Grady. At the time there were names of the winners in a hallway on the wall. My children and I are trying to locate any info we can about that time.. I would appreciate any thing you can tell us.
Mary, please contact Disney Golf, Their number is (407) WDW-GOLF (938-4653). They may be able to help.
Hi Steve,
Thanks so much for all the work you put into this site, it is so helpful. We are planning a trip in the fall and in the past have ordered our salute tickets from SOG and had them shipped which has worked out great. My question is we would like to catch La Nouba during this trip. Do you know if we can purchase those tickets along with our salute tickets and have them shipped together or do we need to go to SOG when we arrive to purchase them?
Thanks,
Tricia
Hi Patricia,
Thanks so much!
You can purchase any ticket that they sell, so yes you’ll be able to get La Nouba tickets.
With shipping that is…
I do not think it is fair and it irritates me that a 15 year vet with service connected disabilities under 100% can only stay at your resort 2 months out of the year! It’s almost a spit in the face. Thanks for nothing. And change your policy!
Respectfully,
Hurricane Katrina, OEF, and OIF combat vet from PA
Thanks for sharing your comment SSG MidEvil. I suggest you take this up with Shades of Green versus here on this veteran run site.
I do both. They hear me and you hear me. It’s an unfair Policy (discriminatory) Open up all months of the year to all veterans.. plain and simple Steve. I fought in combat (did you?) I’m also a law enforcement officer who was shot in the line of duty. My voice will be heard..
I was sad to read that I have to be 100 percent disabled to be here.I am 80 percent and have so much trouble getting around,well I just disapointed,I would of liked to of brought my family here.
Thanks for the comment Brad
Please do share it with Shades of Green, not this veteran run information site.
Hey Steve, Our plans have changed, and it looks like we’ll be making a pre-Christmas trip to WDW after all. I called Shades of Green yesterday, and was pleasantly surprised that they could get me into a suite the week before Christmas. We have stayed in both the Family and Junior Suites on several occasions, but this time we have the Magnolia Suite. I know that it is in the original building, but do you know the area? Looking at the older maps, I might guess it is Room 121, as that seems to depict a room triple the size of a normal room. It look like your photos match the ones on the SoG web site, have you run into other images? A Google search isn’t turning up much. Thanks for your help. -Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Yes that is where the Magnolia Suite is located. Congrats on snagging it!
I do not have any pics of the inside, just what Shades shows. Sorry.
But if you are so inclined, I’d love for you to send me some after your trip!!! This would help others in the future.
It is my understanding that reservations can be made for veterans who are less than 100% disabled at certain times of the year. Can you verify, and publish those dates; if applicable?
Freddy, please see:http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
My husband is a USMC Veteran, and we are both active Coast Guard Auxillarist,
My husband has a military drivers license and we both have a CG Aux ID.
Are we eligible for the discount?
Hi Kim,
Help me out, the auxiliary is the Coast Guard version of the reserve? Do you both have a unit you are assigned to and participate regularly for pay and points?
Thank you for all the hard work you’ve put into this site!
I do have a question I haven’t been able to find an answer to on this site or on google.
Can the Stars and Stripes Length of Stay pass be upgraded to an annual pass?
Thanks!
My pleasure Melanie,
I have to be honest I’m not sure. If it is possible you would have to do it at Shades of Green as it is their specific ticket. Give them a call to check: (407) 824-1403
Just wanted to let you know what I’ve found out about upgrading the Stars and Stripes Length of Stay to an annual pass. According to the lady I spoke to, it can be upgraded at the Shades of Green ticket office.
Now the decision on whether to do that and hope she was correct or just order annual passes before we go.
Hi there Melanie,
Thats great Intel. Thanks for sharing!!!
Hello! We’ll be staying there in July and I was wondering about the exchange. Does it have frozen meals, lunch meat, bread as well as drinks & snacks? I’m thinking it’s like a shoppette just wondering.
Hi Liz,
There is no freezer section, but a full complement of other items. The microwavable meals that do not require refrigeration, bread, cold cuts, cheese, and fixings, and a plethora of snacks and drinks.
I read on your site that there’s a special rate designed towards involuntarily separated veterans. My DD-214 states everything to back this up, however, I was never made aware of getting an ID made via TAMP on base.
Does the DD-214 suffice, or would I need to find a way to gain access to a base/ID department to get a CAC?
Hi Mike,
Yes you will need a current valid ID to stay at Shades of Green. You’ll need to go through the process of getting an ID (DD Form-2, not a CAC).
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-World-Military-Discount-ID-Guide.html and http://www.cac.mil/uniformed-services-id-card/
Hi there! My husband is the primary, Retired (21 years). We have stayed at SoG before, and he made the reservations/tickets etc. My question is, I am thinking of going back for a short time and would like to sponser a room for a guest. Can I do this being his dependent? (Yes I have retired dependent ID) or does he have to make all the arrangements? He will not be with me on this trip, but our friends will. Can I do everything with my ID being the spouse?
Thanks so much!
Hi AnnMarie,
Yes absolutely you can sponsor a room on your own!
What age to you have to be to go to the gym
No limit as far as I know Devin, you just need a room key to enter.
Hi, I was wondering if you could tell me what area of the hotel has the most updated rooms, like the picture in you book, not the older rooms that still have the green carpet. And depending on the area, do you have any specific rooms that you recommend.
Thanks!!
Good Morning! We had been trying to book in Shades for the Wine and Dine Half Marathon weekend and there was just no availability until earlier this week. Suddenly every thing opened up including pool side rooms.
Was there some scheduled construction that was cancelled or completed early? I’m not complaining but just curious how it went to zero to everything available overnight.
Hi Lizzie,
There is a big renovation of the Magnolia Wing that I was told was scheduled to begin in September. Changes to this could definitely have affected availability.
Did you snag a poolside room? I love the ones in the Magnolia Wing!
We did indeed snag the poolside room! Since it’s been a while since I’ve seen these available, I didn’t realize it’s a guaranteed patio room now (per the description). Are these available anywhere other than Magnolia Wing? I just hope it is close to the hot tub so we can crawl there after our race.
Whether the reno is finished or postponed, I’m glad we got something for that weekend. I much prefer Shades to off property.
Awesome!
Yes all the poolsides are in the Magnolia wing. See this post for some images with locations http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/shades-of-greens-poolside-rooms/
i am a disabled veteran, not 100%,
I know i can stay at SOG during january and september and use the SOG ticket office to purchase discounted tickets.
QUESTION:
If i stay at a different Disney Resort(during january or september). like the Carribean, can i still enter SOG and purchase the discounted tickets? Or do i have to stay at SOG to use their ticket sales and receive the discounted tickets?
I also am not retired. i did not serve 20 years. I was honorably discharged
Hi Scott,
I’ve gotten mixed messages from Shades of Green over the years on this. Most recently the answer was no, you have to be staying there. Definitely give them a call to be sure (407) 824-3400
Can anyone tell me if we can purchase the same day for the Salute to Military tickets at Shades of Green because we cannot purchase them until we arrive in Orlando and not from our local base as I am not sure if one of my grandchildren will be attending so I don’t want to purchase in advance. Also, can we purchase the Memory Maker package there. I don’t see the discounted price of $84 online.
Yes Denise,
You can make same day purchases.
Hi Steve!
We’re staying at Shades of Green in a couple weeks. I read your August newsletter about the Magnolia wing going under construction in September.. do you know if they close down that whole wing while it’s in construction? I just hope we don’t get stuck in a room right next to it!
Thanks!
Amber
Hi Amber,
I’m assuming they will do it in sections, like they did the Palm Wing a couple years ago, that would reduce the overall impact. I have a late Sept reservation and was able to get a poolside room, all of which are in the Magnolia Wing.
I am a divorcee from retired air force. Our son (15 yr old) has a retiree dependent ID card. Can I purchase the magic your way discounted disney tickets ahead of time from Shades of Green? Can I purchase for both of us or only him?
Hi Samantha,
He can purchase as many Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets as he’d like (with you paying) for himself or anyone he’s like from Shades of Green or a base ticket office.
He cannot buy the Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets, I just want to be sure those are not what you are talking about.
See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html
and http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
When is the price for the 2018 Stars and Stripes (not the salute) tickets released? We are staying at Shades of Green in April 2018. Can I get the current rates on Stars and Stripes tickets and use them in April 2018? Are there expiration dates on this type of ticket?
Hi Kathyrn,
The Stars and Stripes (and the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets) increase price when the general public ones do.
The next anticipated general public price increase is February 2018. I would recommend buying prior to then! Unused tickets should not expire until the end of the year (2018).
Hi Steve,
We are looking at booking at SOG for August 2018. We normally stay at POR but they don’t have any military discounted rooms available for our dates. When I spoke to the front desk today they mentioned they are renovating. Any idea if that will be complete before August 2018? Is it rooms only? The pools are complete correct?
Thank you for all you do!
Elizabeth
Hi there Elizabeth,
Two things I’ve learned about Shades of Green’s renovations, they always start later than they say they will and run longer (government contracts lol).
The older Magnolia Wing is getting renovated. It was supposed to start last month but did not and last for 18-24 months.
They will do the rooms over in sections for minimal disruption.
You are correct the pools were recently done so there will be no disruption there.
We will be at WDW in two weeks. They did not have availability at Shades for us so staying at the Coronado. We would like to get tickets at Shades and shop the AAFES store. Is there parking for this or do we need to utilize the garage?
Hi Donna,
There sure is. After passing through the security gate proceed up the road. At the stop light turn right into the Golf Course parking lot, you may park there and walk up the short hill to the main Shades of Green entrance.
My husband is an Air Force retiree with and ID Card and I am his spouse. does that mean we can each have 6 guests including ourselves? So can we have up to 12 people with us both with both ID cards at shades of green and for WDW tickets as well? or is it only up to 6 for my husband?
Hi Kathy,
Unfortunately the Disney Armed Forces Salute benefit is only for the member. The spouse can use it in the member’s place, not in addition to.
So the total is 6. Anything you need above that will need to be Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets. See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Just to clarify, if I purchase a 4 day Stars and stripe ticket the ticket is good for four visits and allows for me to take a down day during that time? For example I could go to MK (day 1), AK (day 2), down day for day 3, HS (day 4), and Epcot ( day 5)?
Hi Renee,
Here is Shades of Green’s latest statement re the Stars and Stripes: “The number of days on your ticket must match your length of stay and must be used consecutively.”
I am a reservist but have a green reservist ID card, not a CAC card. The website says reservists are eligible to stay but the ID card is a CAC card. Am I able to book a room and sponsor rooms as a reservist with a green ID card?
Hi Greg, I’m guessing you are in the IRR due to the lack of a CAC. Let me know if I’m incorrect.
Shades of Green and Disney military discounts are for current participating members or retirees (active Guard, Reserve). As a basic IRR member there is no participation requirement, so you’re not doing anything to earn eligibility. You just keep your uniforms, keep your address updated and answer the yearly mail check in.
However IRR members can volunteer for schools and tours of duty. While on an extended tour of duty you’d be issued a CAC for computer access and if the tour was long enough to earn leave you could use that leave to visit Disney World while you had a CAC and receive said benefits.
Have not stayed at Shades of Green, but my wife called for information and was hung up on. Not giving me a warm and fuzzy.
We are planning a return visit to Shades of Green in December 2018. My question for you is …..If SOG was to have any sort of “December Special”, when would we see it listed? I know that the fact that they are renovating may keep them from having any sort of special so just curious. We have been lucky several times in the past to take advantage of a December special. By the way, has the renovation started yet? Thanks so much.
Hi Kathy,
In the past Shades has offered different discount periods in the first half of December.
For the 2 most recent years:
For 2017
Deck the Palms 10-14 Dec 2017 – Announced about May 11 2017. Cancelled about Aug 21 2017
Savings In December 5-7 Dec 2017 – Announced about 21 August 2017. Cancelled about 9 Oct 2017
For 2016
Deck the Palms 1-16 Dec 2016 – Announced about Jan 8 2016. Dates changed to 1-22 Dec about Feb 24 2016. Dates changed to 10-22 Dec about Mar 18 2016. Cancelled about May 22 2016.
I’d say the 2018 timing would be closer to the 2017 model and initial dates with several later modifications like the 2016 model.
I have a question regarding the FastPass benefit for Shades of Green visitors. On your Shades of Green Resort Review page, you state, “FastPass Plus reservations are however 30-days prior to the day required, versus the 60-days prior to check-in for Disney Resort Guests.” On your Shades of Green Disney World Benefits page, however, you state, “FastPass Plus reservation Window: 60 days prior to check in for your entire trip (Up to the number of days on your ticket, your room reservation length including check in and out days, or 10 days, whichever is less). See our Tech Page.” The Tech Page also says 60 days. So do we get to make FastPass reservations at the 30 day mark or at the 60 day mark?
Also, the Tech Page says that Shades of Green is considered a Disney World resort like Swan & Dolphin. It then says to link your reservation to your My Disney Account by plugging in the confirmation number. I did that and it came back with a message saying it wasn’t a Disney confirmation number. When I was given a drop-down list of resorts to choose from, Shades of Green wasn’t on it. The Hilton Orlando and Holiday Inn Orlando (among others like Doubletree and such) were. But not Shades of Green. Maybe I’m confused and doing it incorrectly, but I’ve tried twice with no luck. Can we link our Shades of Green to the Disney app or no?
Thank you
Thank you Peggy for finding the places I missed updating, there are so many.
Yes it’s 60 days, yes you can link your SOG reservation. If you are having trouble call Tech support http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/z-popular/linking-disney-military-tickets-and-fastpass-plus-reservations/
Why is it so hard to find a map that tells you what wing is what? I know the area of the hotel I want to book a room in but no map I can find tells you, “is this the Palm Wing, or is this the Magnolia Wing, or is it something else”. Really, is that asking too much to identify the wings?
Hi Wayne,
This page links to 2 images: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Resort-Layout.html
On both the Magnolia is on the right, Palm on the left.
Hi, I am planning a trip with my ten year old son and wondered if you can you clarify the SOG price categories for me.
I have DD2765 with a DAVPRM designation which is Cat 2 but my grade on my ID shows E5 which is Cat 1.
Do I have the option for the lower Cat 1 rate or is that only for people still on active duty?
Thanks,
Hi Jamie,
You’ll fall under the Cat 2 rate as a 100% DAVPRM. Falling into a category based upon rank is only for current and retired members.
Hi, I wanted to thank a very special employee , Sara, who went out of her way to give my family an extra night at Shades of Green which means the world to them and me!!
Thank you so much for your kindness!!
Kat Parsons
Hello: My mother is a widow, not remarried, from a non retired veteran who also was employed by the public health service and was in the public health reserves. CAn she make reservations here at Shades of Green? If so would she use my Dad’s DD -214 form? ANd follow up as his daughter am I able to do this?
Hi Stacia,
I just checked with Shades of Green and unfortunately the answer is no. This offer is only for the veteran, not surviving spouses or other dependents.
I am a 10% disabled vet. What Disney discounts are available to me? There is only mention of 100% disabled veterans discounts.
Hi Kevin,
Thanks for checking out the site!
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
How big is the fold out sleeper in the SOG rooms? We have 4 adults and a 15 year old that is about 5ft 9in tall we are worried that he will be too big for the sleeper.
Hi John, there are pics on this page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Room-Pictures.html
I’ve never measured it, but I think at 5′ 9″ he’ll be OK. I’m 6’2″ish and as I recall my feet and head touch the armrests.
If I have 3 rooms at SOG, how do I go about changing out the sponser name to hook the reservations to Disney experience so that his name is not one on all 3 rooms so we can hook our fastpasses?
Hi Miranda,
I’ve yet to hear a solution for this. It is a unique problem for Shades of Green because they (unlike Disney) insist on putting the sponsor’s name on the room instead of the notes or something like that.
Disney cannot assist you with this. It is going to have to be Shades of Green that comes up with a solution.
I recommend calling them and asking them to add the missing person to the reservation, if possible due to bed availability (number of slots to enter names into). I suggested this in the past but never heard back from the reader if it worked.
A solution not involving Shades is to go ahead and make your FastPasses for everyone (But don’t make multiple for the sponsor) normally. At the 30 day mark for each desired FastPass day add the missing person(s) to your existing FastPasses.
If that doesn’t work, upon arrival go to a WDW Guest Services window and explain the situation. Ask them to either add the missing person(s) or issue carte blanche FastPasses (which are good for any attraction all day) for that person.
A third, less desirable solution would be that for the missing person(s) you just link their ticket number (and Magic Band if used) the the sponsor’s name in their room and they just use the ticket like that.
Also PLEASE report back on how each step goes so that I may help others!
Thanks, Steve
I would be interested if there are any updates to this. We are planning a trip to SOG July 2019 and I never thought about how this will be an issue. We will have two rooms
Hi there Krista,
This post should help: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/60-day-fastpass-start-to-finish-how-to-guide-for-shades-of-green-guests/
Hi Steve,
I have a few questions for ya. I’ve been sorting through your website for a bit reading all of the great info! We are active military, moving to Florida and I’m hoping I’m not overlooking any info, there are so many options. If we plan on going to Disney World say 1-3 times max per year. Are we better off with Florida Resident Rates? Can we get both FL resident and military? I think my options are as follows if I read everything correctly. 1) Discounted Mil tickets 2) Stars and Stripes offer 3) FL resident rate 4) Annual Passholder-if it’s even worth it. I’m prepared to make an epic chart, but I was wondering if you had any advice. Thanks in advance for helping.
LOL, Hey Jenn,
Hi I’m Steve and I’m an excel geek…
So we were in FL at Tyndall for 9 years.
1 to 3 times creates a wide range of options, as opposed to 3 to 6 times, due to where the break points fall. Also, you’ll need to decide the number of days you’ll need park tickets for rather than number of trips. That’s how you’ll decide.
For reference, while in FL I used the FL Silver pass as I went 5- 7 times a year, while my wife used the FL tickets as she only went 1 maybe 2.
The Silver Pass is blocked from use during Spring Break for 2 weeks, Christmas week, both similar to the Salute tickets, and also June to Mid August. But you don’t want to go those times anyway.
The FL Silver is $433 from Shades of Green. Disney offers a single purchase or monthly payment for their FL Passes. The silver from them is One payment: $439.00 + $28.54 tax = $467.54, while the monthly option is: $125.00 down and 12 payments of $28.55 on your credit card (bigger down payment means lower monthly). There are discounts to renew.
You can see Disney pass options here: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/passes/ you need to be logged in and have a FL address entered in your account to see FL pass info.
There are also the 2 kinds of FL multi-day tickets,
The Discover Disney (essentially the 2017-2018 versions) these must be used by June 24, 2018.
And the Disney Select (the 2018-2019) must be used by Dec 31 2019.
Both come in 3 and 4 day versions. the 17-18 only in Base and Hopper, the 18-19 Base, Hopper, Hopper Plus.
For the 17-18 you can buy 2 tickets per person (3 or 4 day) and stay under the Silver Pass price. So if you are going more than 8 days the pass is better.
For the 18-19 the 3-days you can buy 2 Base tickets per person and stay under the pass price. Fo the 4-day it is the same except for adults buying 2 keeps you under only the Shades pass price. For Hopper and Hopper Plus if you are going more than 4 days the pass is cheaper.
If you are thinking some trips by 24 June and some after, you can to do the math on the FL tickets.
Hope this helps!
See:
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Florida-Resident-Tickets.html
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/WDW-Annual-Pass.html
We are planning a Disney trip this November, and are considering splitting our week stay between Coronado springs and shades of green… and advice on how easily this can be done? Or if you don’t recommend it?
Hi Kelly,
I always split stays Dis/Dis or Dis/SOG/Dis to experience more locations.
Please see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-tips/split-stays-walt-disney-world-resorts-shades-green/
Let me know if you have any questions.
we are a mil family looking to buy annual passes to disney world…is the price of $857.50 from shades of green correct? that’s higher than buying from Disney, just wondering how that’s a good deal?
Hi Jenny,
I think you are looking at the before tax price. Disney sells the Platinum Pass for $849.00 plus $55.19 tax for a total of $904.19.
No tax of course at Shades (i.e. on base)
I have 3 questions.
Planning a quick trip to Universal with my family and active duty brother. He was curious if he could purchase the current SoG Universal Studios ticket package (4-for1) for himself and my family (wife and kids) with advance tickets mail-in purchase (we would not be staying at SoG)? Would he be able to do that? If so, he gets deployed unexpectantly quite often, so if by chance he does get deployed could we still use the tickets if bought in advance, or does he have to be present for the first-time use regardless, or show proof of deployment or refund a possibility? And lastly, he is planning a separate Disney trip with his kids (to young for Universal) later in the Fall for Disney World. If he is able to get the Universal tickets for us, would that effect his purchasing of Disney World tickets for his separate trip (unlikely to purchase through SoG, but possibly)? Thanks for any assistance you can provide.
Ron
Hi Ron,
He does not have to be staying at Shades of Green to buy tickets long distance. But there is no reason to do that with Universal tickets, only WDW ones for advance FastPass.
Because these are highly discounted special tickets the member must be present. I recommend he buy them just before departure (when he knows he can go) at his base if they sell them, or after arrival at Shades of Green or the Navy Orlando ticket office.
If he can’t make it you can buy the full price ones that you are eligible for at Universal when you get there.
There is no effect on tickets between the different companies.
How much are the arcade games? Having a small party and would like to know ahead of time
Hi Meshia,
Sorry, I don’t have much personal info as these are typically something I don’t do.
I’ve looked at pics I have and some machines say “1 credit to Start.” Others aren’t marked in a way that I can see in the pics.
You buy plastic token cards at dispensing machines. In the arcade there is a machine that takes bills or credit/debit with a minimum of $5 purchase (this one has no external label, there is a touch screen for details – This pic is from Sept 2017). There is another machine next to the AAFES which only takes bills and sells $5, $10, or $20 worth, this one says $5 gets you 30 credits plus 6 bonus credits, $10 = 60 + 15 bonus, and $20 = 120 + 40 bonus (this pic is from Sept 2016).
Is this resort available to military veterans. I served in the US Army from 1968 to 1970. I am also currently a member of the American Legion
Hi there Gary,
There are no discounts available directly from Disney for your situation.
There is the this one discount available for non-retired veterans which is from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September.
Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
Are DoD contractors eligible to stay at SOG or do they need someone to sponsor them?
Hi Kay,
Sorry, no. You’d need a sponsor.
Steve,
I finally got into the site, ya! But I do have a question about Shades of Green. We have stayed there several times over the years, but are looking for our next trip in November of 2019 to stay in a Junior Suite. I am trying to find out when I can try to book that? I have tried on the website and have also called SOG but I always get a machine and they are not returning my calls. Is it a year out from the date you want to reserve? Or a year from the month? I know the suites are hard to get so I am trying to be pro-active. Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Valerie
Awesome Valerie,
it is a year from the date.
It should go right to a person not a machine. Are you calling the Reservations number (888) 593-2242?
I am a usaf vet serving 4 yrs active 2 yrs inactive reserve. Am I eligible to stay at this resort.?
Hi Vanessa,
There is the this one program available for non-retired veterans from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
My wife and I will have a room that is sponsored by my retired father (who will also be staying there). This will be my first time at Shades without my own military ID (since I’m no longer a dependent). Will he need to be there for all purchases made on property? Or will I be able to make purchases at the store and restaurants without him? Thanks for your help!
Hi Shaun,
You can purchase everything with your resort ID except tobacco and alcohol in the AAFES Store. Good to go for everything else!
Does Disney offer parking discounts to active/retired military veterans . Either single day or multi days? If not,, is parking available at Shades of Green? Thank you!
Hi Gary,
That’s a no to both.
Disney feels that with the ticket and room discounts they are doing enough. The other charges are how they continue to make some money on the mil community.
Parking at Shades is expressly for those using their services, i.e. staying there, using the ticket office, or AAFES Store. A Shades resort ID is required to ride their buses.
Good day! Is there a special rate for veterans that travel alone or do all rooms start at $119.00 no matter what?
Hi there,
Yes that is the starting price for one or two people in the room.
In “The Essential Guide to Shades of Green”, Airport Check In section (pg 53), you list participating airlines. One is Northwest, but I thought they merged with Delta a few years ago. Notably missing is Southwest Airlines…do they participate at Disney resorts and not Shades of Green or was this an oversight?
Hi John,
Thanks for the feedback. You are correct. the correct list is: American, Jet Blue, Alaska, Delta, United, and Southwest.
The same company provides the service for WDW and Shades.
My family and I stayed at the hotel from 19 to 23 December the hotel is great, wonderful accommodations. There’s only one problem that made our stay there not as pleasant as we would have liked , “The Check-in Counter” the supervisor on the shift was fair, BUT the clerks were rude, nasty and were very short, their attitude definitely needs adjustment and training in customer service will go along way. I don’t believe veterans or soldiers now currently serving should be treated in such a manner by the front desk clerks.
Thanks for your feedback Spain.
Please take the Shades of Green Survey if you haven’t yet!
http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/military-members-review-rate-shades-green/
Hi Steve, we want to purchase the FL resident silver annual pass. Can we purchase these at Shades of Green and still do the monthly plan with down payment or is that option only available at guest services/ticket booth? If SOG only allows us to purchase and pay in full we will head to guest relations instead. Thanks in advance!
Hi Celeste,
Shades just has a one time purchase price (last I knew). I buy my Silver trough Disney for just that reason. I like the monthly payment so much.
I do apologize if this has been answered. I will be sponsoring a room for my sister (2 adults, 14 yr old, 3yr old, 2yr old and 13 month old. Would this really be considered 6 total? The rooms at Shades are large enough for my sister and her small children. When I put in 6 people it states rooms not available. I did call Shades and the employee said the infant would not be an adult or kid so I should put in 2 adults and 3 kids. I just want to make sure this is accurate. Perhaps I should call and get a 2nd opinion…
Hi Christine,
Thanks for the question.
Yes that will be fine. I wouldn’t even list the 2yo, as they do not require a park ticket and the associated FastPasses. Actually you can’t you’ll see why below.
A quirk at Shades is they put the Sponsor’s name on the sponsored room (as if they were staying in it) which then gets put on the room in My Disney Experience.
So the sponsored room will have the sponsor and 4 other names max. You’ll need these 4 to be for those who need tickets (3yo+). People with larger parties run into trouble with My Disney Experience because they can’t link all the people they have in the room who have tickets to the reservation.
Hope this is clear, let me know!
Does the AAFES facility have hygiene items? I can’t tell with the pictures you have posted?
Thank you .
HI Carol,
Sorry the pics I had of that area did not come out.
They have a limited variety of all your travel necessitates. diapers, OTC meds, laundry needs, soap, toiletries, etc.
I’ve searched the comments but last answer I saw was from 2016. Has the overflow rates been discontinued for 2019? Thank you in advance.
Hi there Betty,
It’s been a long time since I’ve heard that phrase. Yes, Shades of Green Overflow Rates were discontinued years ago.
I am signed up to do the Wine & Dine half-marathon at the end of October and am trying to determine my best options for places to stay. Is there bus transportation to and from the event from SOG like available from the Disney resorts, such as I used from Saratoga Springs when I did the Princess weekend a few years ago? Or would I need to drive myself or possibly catch Disney transportation from the Polynesian?
Thank you for any guidance. I am just starting to get my plan together.
Hi Jennifer,
Per the Disney Mom’s Panel for the Wine & Dine: “All race weekend transportation is provided for Guests staying at all Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Shades of Green and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Buses should be provided to and from each race plus the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo.”
I’ve seen runners arriving after the various races at Shades on Disney transpo in the past!
Hello,
Now that the monorail is under refurbishment at Magic Kingdom what would be the best way to get to Magic Kingdom from Shades of Green? Is it best to go to Polynesian and get a boat? How would someone do that? How can I be sure my family arrives at Magic Kingdom by 8am?
Thank you!!
Hi Marie,
I’m not seeing any official (or unofficial) announcement of a monorail closure. There is this statement on the WDW site “Monorails may be operating with modified service and routes. During your upcoming visit, please check first with a Cast Member to be sure that monorail transportation is the best possible option for you, as there are many other transportation options available!” But that has been on the site for months and the monorail was running just fine last month when I was there. Are you referring to something that I’m not aware of?
Should they bring the system down temporarily they would avoid high volume periods such as park opening if at all possible.
It’s certainly possible to take the Poly water taxi to the Magic Kingdom. You’d walk to the Poly Lobby as usual from Shades of Green. But just prior to entering the Great Ceremonial House turn left and proceed with the marina to your left all the way to the dock at the very rear of the resort.
Minnie Van, Lyft, or Uber are also a good option for early morning arrivals. (Lyft & Uber would need to drop you at the entrance to the Contemporary for the short walk over).
Thank you so much!!
We bought the Military Tickets from Shades of Green. I am receiving conflicting information on the activation. I was told they are activated and that we can now just go straight to the gates and go in and the group can go their separate ways. The older kids want to go one park and then we want to take the little ones to Magic Kingdom. Do we all have to enter the 1 park together first or can we split?
Hi Toria,
Activated Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets behave just like any other general public ticket. There is no ID check and no need to all go together. The tickets will work for each person anywhere.
Thanks so much. I didnt want part of my family to be denied entry if we are not together and waste an entire morning. However, just to clarify, do you know if the tickets sold from Shades of Green are fully activated?
Unless they have changed their policy very recently they are. They should advise you that they are when purchasing.
They will also tell you incorrectly (on purpose because it is a very bad policy to sell activated tickets and they are trying to cover their butts) that there could be an ID check on first use.
Hi there. If armed forces solute tickets are purchased online or by phone thru SOG that are then mailed to me i understand are activated. Is this true or will an in person activation still be required. Ive read they must have in person I’d check them I’ve read preactivated. Conflicting info on various sites. Thank you kindly.
Hi Marie,
It is true. Shades of Green tells people there is a second ID check to try to prevent scalping. They shoud really stop selling pre-activated tickets long distance, in favor of the non-activated exchange tickets/vouchers.
You should avoid other sites… lol
I am the spouse of a veteran. Does the Veteran have to be present at the resort or can I, as the spouse, stay here with our son and grandchild without him?
He’s still alive, spent time in Vietnam, have DD214, have to stay in September or January, I get it, just need to know if he has to be present at the resort?
Thanks
Hi Shelly,
As far as I know the veteran needs to attend as he has the DD-214 and you have no military issued ID.
Give Shades a call to check though: 1 (888) 593-2242
Any idea when Raytheon will hold the character breakfast at Shades of Green in 2019?
Hi there Kelly,
That’s not something that I really follow as it is only 1 day a year.
All I can offer is to watch for an announcement on the Shades facebook page and maybe their website.
Do you know if all service connected veterans will able to stay at Shades of Green starting January 2020 when the new laws take effect extending MWR and commissary privileges to all service connected disabled veterans? Thank you.
Hi Latisha,
I would think so as the bill will authorize those in that category to use Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities, which Shades of Green is, just like DAVPRM.
I’ll see what I can find out and post on the blog if there is a positive response.
UPDATE: This is Shades’ current statement on this:
Thank you for your inquiry. At this time, we have not received the official notice of beginning this or the full details.
Please follow our Facebook page and/or website for any updates that we may post.
Thank you! I guess we will find out in January!
I made my reservations yesterday for a stay in Jan – Feb 2020. The person taking my reservation told me that parking will be $11/night.
Hi Pennie,
Thanks for the report! It doesn’t surprise me.
Nothing on their site about that yet.
Why is it that only ” honorably discharged veterans with 100% service-connected disability,” can stay? Why can’t other honorably discharged veterans with a service-connected disability stay here? Seems a bit like you are discriminating against the others with lower service-connected disabilities, that they got from serving our country.. My husband is 80% and it just doesn’t seem fair.
Hi Christina,
As I understand it, as an 80% disabled your husband does not have a military issued ID card and does not have access to military bases and bace facilities like MWR, commissary, Exchange, etc. Is that correct?
And again as I understand it he would not have access to Shades of Green (for most of the year) for the same reason, it is essentially a MWR asset.
There is the this one discount available for all non-retired veterans from Shades of Green. It is only for the months of January and September. Here is my post with details including what documentation is required: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Non-Retired-Veterans.html
I’m debating a stay at Shades of Green for our next visit to Disney World. Every year I want to try that resort, and every year I chicken out because the transportation scares me. I know everyone says it’s “only” a 10-15 minute walk from SOG to Poly, but for some of us, that 10-15 minute walk isn’t feasible.
I’m disabled and can only do a limited amount of walking. I usually take the Disney bus to the park then rent a scooter once I’m there. So walking to the Poly is not an option. Even taking the shuttle to the end of the property isn’t really an option because the monorail isn’t right at that end of the resort closest to SOG. There’s still a bit of walking once you get to the Polynesian.
Is there some way for disabled people to get around the Disney World complex without having to walk from SOG to the Transfer & Ticketing Center?
Thank you
Hi Peg,
There are 2 options that I see for your Shades of Green stay.
1. Rent a much cheaper scooter (with a military discount) from an outside company that you have 24 hours a day versus the expensive, in park only Disney ones. Then you can ride this from your room to the poly and ride the monorail.
See: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/scooter-rentals-at-shades-of-green/
2. Depend on Shades’ bus fleet. The bus to the Transportation and Ticket Center (Magic Kingdom and Epcot) leaves every 20 minutes. The other 2 parks take more planning as they only run once an hour. You have to be aware of the time and can’t just leave when you want. Also rent a cheaper scooter and Shades buses will take you on it just like Disney buses.
Hi Steve!
My husband is in the Air Force Reserves and we are wanting to do a Disney trip next year with my brother and his family so I have some questions for you..
1) The Stars and Stripes tickets.. are they good for any of us staying there? After using up our Armed Forces Salute allotment that still leaves us needing 3 child tickets (between our 2 families), but I didn’t know if my nephew could use one of those or not since he’s not a dependent.
2) Can we still use the MagicBands to charge things to our rooms while in the parks?
3) If we CAN charge things to the room, can we use Disney gift cards to pay off the charged balance? (I know we can’t use Disney gift cards towards SoG purchases such as tickets, dining, or AAFES.. just wondering about what was spent while IN the parks!)
Thank you!!
Hi Stephanie,
You may purchase the Stars and Stripes for anyone you’d like, they don’t need to be a dependent. These are the equivalent to the Park Hopper Plus and would be a waste if the rest of your party does not have the Plus option.
Have you read about the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets? http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Depends where you stay, at Disney Resorts yes you can. At Shades of Green or other non-Disney hotels, no you can’t. Have you read: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/my-magic-plus/magic-bands-for-shades-of-green-guests/ and https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/my-magic-plus/magic-bands-and-fastpass-plus-for-shades-of-green-guests/
Disney gift cards are accepted only by Disney, not other companies (or Shades). If in park purchases are the only category you can use your gift cards on, you’ll need to use the actual card(s) in the parks.
The Stars and Stripes tickets are only for SoG guests though, correct? We’ve looked at EVERY ticket option and the best one seems to be the Stars and Stripes ticket which is $455.50 for 6 days as opposed to the 6-day (w/ Park Hopper) MYW ticket which is $480 even though we won’t need the “Plus” option.
I wasn’t clear, my mistake, I meant to ask if we could use the bands to charge things while staying at SoG but then not long after I posted that question I found the link you replied with about MagicBands at SoG 🙂
Thanks for your help!
Hi,
The Stars and Stripes tickets are supposed to be only for those staying on Disney World property (Disney Resorts, Shades of Green, Disney Springs Hotels, and a couple others). But per Shades of Green’s ticket Office, they ask for no proof of 1. where you are staying and 2. for how long. They just trust you.
Yes, my bad the S&S is indeed cheaper.
As a daughter of a retired, disabled veteran of the Air Force, as I eligible to book a room at the Shades of Green?
Hi Maria ,
Yes, if you have a current, valid military ID, i.e. still a dependent.
Hi Steve,
Do we have any updates regarding disabled veterans use of SOG as of January 2020 when all diabled veternas become eligible to use MWR facilities?
Hi Latisha,
Yes, actually there is an update today!
I’m in the process of updating this post: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/disney-discounts-and-the-john-mccain-defense-authorization-act/
Check it a little later today. (in about 30-60 min, it’s 9:30 a.m. eastern now)