Shades of Green: The Military Resort at Walt Disney World
Shades of Green is a peaceful, military-owned resort located on Walt Disney World property in Orlando, Florida. It sits quietly among lush golf courses and tropical landscaping, offering a calm retreat from the busy parks. Unlike many other resorts, it feels quieter, calmer, and more familiar — especially for military families.
This resort is operated by the U.S. Department of Defense as part of the Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC)system. Because of this, it’s available exclusively to eligible military members, retirees, and their families. Even better, guests can enjoy many of the same perks as staying at a Deluxe Disney Resort — for a lower price.
For our family, Shades of Green truly feels like a home away from home. We love the welcoming military community and the peaceful atmosphere. Compared to busier Disney resorts, it’s quieter and more respectful. The staff is incredibly friendly, and over time, many have come to recognize us. Thanks to their kindness, they’ve become part of our Disney story.
Another thing we love? The wildlife. Over the years, we’ve spotted deer, turkeys, and even a baby alligator. We’ve seen peacocks wander the grounds and native birds by the pool or ponds. On occasion, guests have spotted armadillos, though we haven’t been that lucky yet.
In terms of size, the resort is relatively small. Because of that, there’s less walking and a more personal feel. It’s not just a place to stay — instead, it feels like part of the vacation itself.
✨ Click here to read my review. Standard Room and Resort Review: Your Gateway to a Magical Disney Vacation! ✨
🔗 Quick Links
✨ Who Can Stay at Shades of Green?
You’re eligible to stay at Shades of Green if you are:
- An Active Duty service member, including National Guard, Reserves, and Cadets of Armed Forces Academies
- A retired military member with 20+ years of service or a medical retirement
- A 100% service-connected disabled veteran eligible for military benefits (treated the same as retirees)
- A veteran or caregiver covered under the Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018, including:
- Veterans with a VA-documented service-connected disability rating
- Veterans with a Purple Heart, Former POW, or Service-Connected status noted on their VHIC
- Veterans in VA health care priority group 8E with acceptable ID (e.g., REAL ID-compliant license or U.S. passport)
- Designated Primary Family Caregivers enrolled in the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
- A current or retired DoD civilian employee or family member
- A member of other uniformed services, including NOAA Commissioned Corps or U.S. Public Health Service
- An eligible family member with a valid dependent ID
- A surviving spouse of a military member, under qualifying circumstances
What About Regular Veterans?
Honorably discharged veterans who are not disabled may stay only during January and September. These months are set aside each year to honor all veterans with limited-time access. Because availability is limited, it’s best to book early or contact Shades of Green for more details.
Before your stay, make sure to bring valid proof of eligibility, such as a military ID or VA letter. If you’re unsure, check our eligibility page or the official Shades of Green eligibility page to confirm before booking.
💵 How Much Does It Cost?
Shades of Green uses a rank-based pricing system, similar to military base lodging. Your rate is based on your status, not seasonal demand — and it stays the same all year long. Unlike Disney resorts, the prices don’t change based on holidays, crowd levels, or time of year. This gives you flexibility to travel when it works best for your family.
Even better, room rates at Shades of Green are tax-free. That means the price you see is the price you pay — with no surprise charges added later.
Room rates are divided into three categories, based on military rank or government grade:
- Category I – E1 to E6
- Category II – E7 to E9, WO1 to CW3, O1 to O3, Widows, and 100% DAV
- Category III – CW4 to CW5, O4 to O10, DoD Civilians, Foreign Military, and those eligible under the Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act
Compared to Disney Deluxe Resorts, Shades of Green offers similar amenities at a much lower cost. For many families, the savings can add up to hundreds — even thousands — over a multi-night stay.
🛌 Room Types and Amenities
Shades of Green offers spacious, comfortable rooms that are much larger than standard Disney resort rooms — and more affordable too.
Standard Rooms
Standard rooms sleep up to five average about 450 square feet, offering more space than most Value or Moderate Disney resorts. Each room includes two queen beds, a sleeper sofa, a mini-fridge, and a private balcony or patio. You’ll also find a full bathroom, large closet, and cozy décor throughout the space. For families like ours, the extra room makes a big difference after a long park day.
Poolside Rooms
You can also choose a poolside room for easy access to the pool area and a more lively view. Everything else basically stays the same — same or similar layout, same amenities, just closer to the action. If you prefer convenience, this upgrade is worth considering.
Suites
Need more space? Shades of Green offers a limited number of suites for larger families or groups. Suites may include multiple bedrooms, extra bathrooms, and a living area for relaxing or entertaining. Since they book quickly, it’s best to reserve them as early as possible.
Accessible Rooms
Shades of Green also provides ADA-compliant rooms with features like roll-in showers. If you need one, just mention it during booking. The staff is accommodating and will do their best to match your needs.
🍽️ Dining Options at Shades of Green
Shades of Green offers a variety of dining spots to suit every taste and schedule:
- Garden Gallery Buffet – All-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and dinner take out or room delivery.
- Java Café – Coffee, pastries, Dole Whip, ice cream, and grab-and-go snacks
- Evergreen’s Sports Bar – Casual sit-down meals, burgers, wings, and drinks by the pool
- Express Café – Quick breakfast and lunch sandwiches, parfaits, and smoothies
- Mangino’s – Full service restaurant servings steaks and Italian fare.
- The Exchange – AAFES-operated shop with drinks, snacks, and convenience items
Our family favorites? Evergreen’s, Express Café, and Java Café. They’re quick, affordable, and always hit the spot — especially on busy park days or rest days at the resort.
🏊 Recreation, Pools, and More
Shades of Green has plenty to do when you’re not at the parks. Whether you want to relax or stay active, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Pools and Water Play
The Mill Pond Pool is the main pool — large, fun, and perfect for families. It includes a water slide, and nearby splash pad for younger kids. If you prefer something quieter, head to the Magnolia Pool with its zero-entry area and hot tub. It’s peaceful, calm, and ideal for adults or guests looking to unwind.
Playgrounds and the Arcade
Right near the Mill Pond pool and Evergreens, you’ll find a small playground area for kids who need to run and climb. There’s also a video arcade inside Evergreens — great for rest days or rainy afternoons. Our son loves it, especially after grabbing dinner at Evergreens.
Golf and Outdoor Fun
Shades of Green sits between two PGA-level golf courses — Magnolia and Palm. Guests receive military pricing on tee times, equipment rentals, and lessons. Even if you don’t golf, the views are gorgeous and the grounds are fun to explore.
In short, Shades of Green makes it easy to rest, recharge, and have fun between park days.
🏋️ Fitness Center
The Fitness Center is located near Mangino’s, between the Palm Wing and the scenic pond. It features cardio machines, free weights, strength equipment, and TVs for entertainment. There’s also a water bottle refill station and plenty of space to move.
It’s quiet, clean, and great if you want to stay active during your trip.
Click here for more info and hours.
💆 Magnolia Spa
The Magnolia Spa offers massages, facials, body treatments, and salon services — including manicures and pedicures.
They also have princess and pirate makeovers for kids, which are a fun alternative to in-park experiences.
It’s a great way to relax, recharge, or treat yourself during your stay.
Click here for more details and to make a reservation.
🛍️ On-Site Shopping and Services
Shades of Green has several convenient services to make your stay easier and more enjoyable. Whether you need essentials or extras, everything is just steps away.
AAFES Exchange
The on-site AAFES Exchange carries snacks, drinks, sunscreen, toiletries, and small souvenirs. Also offers Disney souvenirs and merchandise, military-themed gifts, and seasonal items. If you forget something, chances are you’ll find it here. Unlike park shops, you’ll pay normal base prices and no taxes — no Disney markup here.
Ticket & Attraction Office
Need tickets? The ticket office sells Military Salute Tickets, attraction passes, and special event access. It’s a great place to ask questions or confirm pricing before you buy.
Laundry & Rentals
Self-service laundry rooms are available on the third floors on Palm and Magnolia wings. If you’re staying for a while, this is a budget-friendly option for families.
Scooter and stroller rentals are also available through Buena Vista Rentals, and can be reserved in advance or sometimes they have some available to rent on-site.
In short, Shades of Green gives you what you need — without needing to leave the resort.
🎟️ Disney Perks for Shades of Green Guests
Guests at Shades of Green enjoy several official Disney Resort benefits, including:
- Early Theme Park Entry – Available to all Disney resort guests, including Shades
- Extended Evening Hours – Offered to Deluxe Resort guests, and Shades qualifies
- Early Lightning Lane MultiPass Access – Shades guests can purchase MultiPass selections 7 days in advance, just like Disney Resort guests
- Free Bus Transportation – Shades provides bus transportation to all four Disney theme parks and Disney Springs
- Free Towel at Typhoon Lagoon -You can pick up one free towel per guest at the gift shop at Singapore Sals
What’s not included:
- Airport transportation – There is no free transportation from the airport to the resort
- MagicBands – Must be purchased separately. They do not work for room entry or making purchases when staying at Shades
- Resort parking – $17 per day for Shades guests
- Theme park parking – No free theme park parking. Currently $30 per day for standard parking
- Free Water Park Day – No free water park on the day of check in. This is for guests of Disney Resorts only.
Even without every Disney-branded extra, Shades still gives you early access, extended evenings, and big savings — all while you stay right on Disney property.
🚍 Transportation and Getting Around
One of the best parts of staying at Shades of Green is the free bus transportation to Disney parks and Disney Springs.
Buses pick up and drop off in the lower lobby, just past the Express Café. Click Here for the Bus Schedule.
Transportation & Ticket Center (TTC) Bus
A dedicated Shades bus runs about every 20 minutes to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC).
From there, you can take the Monorail or Ferry to Magic Kingdom, or the Monorail to EPCOT.
Hollywood Studios & Animal Kingdom Bus
A shared bus runs directly from Shades to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom about every 30 minutes.
Disney Springs Bus
The bus to Disney Springs departs from Shades every hour on the half-hour (first at 9:30 AM, last at 12:00 AM).
Bus Schedule & Operating Hours
Buses begin running roughly one hour before Early Theme Park Entry and continue until at least one hour after park closing.
Schedules may change seasonally, so be sure to check the posted signs in the lobby each day.
Click Here for the Bus Schedule.
While Shades isn’t directly connected to the Monorail loop, it’s still well connected — and surprisingly simple to navigate.
🦃 Wildlife and Peaceful Atmosphere
One of the most unexpected — and honestly magical — parts of staying at Shades of Green is the wildlife. Over the years, we’ve spotted deer, turkeys, peacocks, ducks, and even a baby alligator in the pond. There are also native tropical birds and waterfowl that make the grounds feel like a peaceful nature preserve.
And the turkeys? They’re basically celebrities here. We’ve seen them strutting around like they own the place — and honestly, they kind of do. 😄 You never know what you’ll see during a morning walk or while sitting outside with a cup of coffee.
Some guests have spotted armadillos, though we haven’t been lucky enough to catch one yet. It’s just another reason we love staying here — it’s not only relaxing, it feels alive in the best way.
📅 Booking Tips and When to Visit
If you’re planning to stay at Shades of Green, book as early as possible — especially during school breaks or holiday weekends.
Standard rooms can fill up fast, and suites go even faster.
You can book up to one year in advance, and Active Duty service members may book up to 13 months out. No deposit is required if you use a credit card, but there is a 14-day cancellation window. Cancel after that, and you’ll be charged a one-night fee.
For the best experience, you may want to avoid major holidays and summer months, when crowds and heat are at their peak. Spring and early fall tend to have milder weather and lighter crowds — plus better room availability.
Also, don’t forget to check the Shades of Green Deals page. They sometimes offer room-only discounts or room + breakfast packages that can save you even more.
Bottom line: Book early, watch for deals, and plan around your family’s comfort — not just the calendar.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Why We Keep Coming Back
For us, Shades of Green is more than just a place to sleep — it feels like home. There’s comfort in the routine, peace in the quiet, and something special about being surrounded by people who understand your life.
We’ve made memories here that we’ll carry forever — quiet mornings on the patio with coffee, watching the wildlife wander through. We’ve spent time relaxing by the pool, enjoying the calm, the laughs, and just being together.
It’s calm. It’s welcoming. And it offers the kind of value that makes family trips possible without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Every time we check in, we breathe a little easier. Not just because of the savings or the space — but because we feel like we belong.
That’s why we keep coming back.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Shades of Green
Does Shades offer late check-out?
Yes — but it’s limited and only available until noon. Ask the front desk early if you’d like to request it.
Can I purchase the Disney Dining Plan as a Shades guest?
Unfortunately, no. The Dining Plan is only available to guests staying at Disney-owned resorts.
Can I use Disney Gift Cards to pay at Shades of Green?
No — but the Exchange does sell Disney gift cards, which can be used throughout Disney World.
Does Shades have laundry facilities?
Yes! There’s a laundry room in each wing. It’s $3.50 per wash and $3.50 per dry. No pods allowed, and detergent is available in vending machines. Payment is by credit card only.
What forms of payment does Shades accept for stays?
They accept debit and credit cards, cash, and personal checks.
- Paying with credit? A hold is placed for the full amount (plus estimated incidentals and parking) and finalized at check-out.
- Using debit, cash, or personal check? Full payment is due at check-in.
Can I make payments toward my Shades reservation?
Yes! Use the Payment Remittance Form on the Magical Mouse Command site.
How many rooms can I reserve per military ID?
Each eligible sponsor can reserve up to three rooms — one for yourself and two for guests.
How many guests can stay in each room?
- Standard rooms sleep up to 5
- Junior and Garden Suites sleep 6
- Family Suite sleeps 8
- Palm and Magnolia Suites sleep 10
What’s the cancellation policy at Shades of Green?
You can cancel up to 14 days before arrival with no penalty.
Can a military spouse stay without the service member?
Yes — as long as the spouse has a valid dependent ID at check-in.
Can friends or family visit us at Shades of Green?
Yes! Visitors are welcome to dine at the restaurants. However, only registered guests can use the pools, splash pad, hot tub, fitness center, or transportation.
Can guests pin trade, sprinkle pixie dust, or decorate doors at Shades?
Yes! The doors are metal, so magnets work great — get creative!
What Walmart is closest to Shades of Green?
Two nearby locations:
- 📍 3250 Vineland Road, Kissimmee, FL 34746
- 📍 2855 N Old Lake Wilson Road, Kissimmee, FL 34747
