After leaving the Heroes Sail Free Margaritaville Cruise to the Bahamas, we planned a quick trip to Shades of Green (SOG) in Central Florida for a short Disney vacation. Being able to book a room last minute at the Walt Disney World Property meant we had to act fast to snag a room last minute. We’re also making a TikTok series and writing article reviews about military resort(s) available to retirees and veterans around the world after we visit them. 

Are You Eligible to Visit Shades of Green at Walt Disney World Resort?

When Congress passed the Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act in 2018, it expanded the eligibility requirements that were once only available to military retirees. Now, more people can enjoy these benefits.

Listed below are the eligible guests to stay at Shades of Green Resort:

• Active duty military personnel
• Retired military
• Purple Heart recipients
• Former prisoners of war (POW) 
• Military veterans with VA-documented service-connected disability ratings 

To make it simple, military members with honorable discharge paperwork and service-connected disabilities are eligible to stay at Shades of Green (SOG).

Make sure you have your valid military ID with with you before entering the resort. There’s a checkpoint at the property entrance, and the front desk will also need proper identification to check you in. If you’re sponsoring rooms for guests like parents, grandparents, or friends, you’ll need to be with them at check-in.

Guest Rooms Selection

Shades of Green has hit its 30th year of operation, and they are offering specials this August and September. Check their monthly specials on their website here. I’m not going to give you bogus info—we had to make three different reservations to stay at the resort for four nights on short notice.

Lucky for you, we got to experience two Poolside Rooms in the Magnolia Wing and one golf course view in the Palm Wing. All three hotel rooms were awesome. If you need a resort map, click here.

Poolside Room

The poolside rooms are fantastic, especially if you’re on the ground floor with the Mill Pond pool or the Magnolia Pool. Our first room was just steps away from the Mill Pond Pool Splash Park, perfect for your toddlers and kids. Audrey loved it! 

These Shades of Green rooms come with a balcony and chairs, so you can relax and enjoy watching the turkeys wander by on the grass.

Our first room had a direct view of the pool, while the second room was in the northeast corner of the courtyard area. Although the pool view was blocked by some decorative palms and landscaping, it offered a quieter vibe away from the pool’s hustle and bustle.

Both rooms featured really comfy queen beds along with a comfortable sleeper sofa, which we love for spreading out and enjoying our time together. They also had small fridges and coffee maker(s), though there were no microwaves in the rooms. However, the Express Cafe had a few in the eating area. 

The bathroom in the poolside rooms had double sinks with a separate shower area that includes the toilet. The poolside room easily accommodated all of our luggage and had a dining area with two chairs. It was incredibly spacious for the room rates offered.

Standard Room

As I mentioned earlier, we moved to the Palm Wing, and let me tell you about it. The room looks brand new as soon as you walk in the door. They did give us a handicap hotel room also known as an accessible room or an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) room. 

The first thing I noticed was the extra space at the entrance. This is perfect for someone in a wheelchair because it offers more room to close the door and move around easily.

The bathroom is directly to your right and has much more space than the non-accessible poolside rooms. The double sinks were replaced with a single sink.

The bathroom includes everything in one large room, making it perfect for wheelchair mobility. However, it could use a few more grab bars, in my opinion. They did have grab bars where you need them, around the toilet and shower.

The shower was large and allowed enough space to maneuver a wheelchair into the shower stall area. If you need this accommodation, you’ll be happy with the amenities.

The room included two queen beds, a comfortable sleeper sofa, and a balcony with chairs overlooking the golf resort.

None of the resorts in the Magic Kingdom can beat the price at Shades of Green, especially with the pay grade scale for the square feet that is offered. For pay grade(s) E1-E6, the room rate for a standard room is $174. Check here for the latest room rates.

Shades of Green Suites

I can see why the suites are so popular—they look amazing online. We were trying to relax and plan our next move after the Margaritaville Cruise (check it out), so we decided to skip the park this time. However, when we come back, we’ll be staying in a suite and enjoying a seven to fourteen day stay.

The suites offered by shades of green are listed below in order of cost:

• Junior Suite
• Garden Suite
• Family Suite
• Palm Suite
• Magnolia Suite (most expeinve) 

Military Shades Of Green Walt Disney Resort Reviews and Amenity Specifications:

• Free Wi-Fi Speed: I tested the internet speed, and it came to 15-20 Mbps. Not great for our needs, but I was able to upload a few thousand pictures to the cloud with the internet access during our stay. I’d give it 2 out of 5 stars.
• Early Check-in & Baggage Holding Available: Every time we moved, we were given an available room. It was the perfect scenario—5 out of 5 stars.
• Wall Sockets for Charging: No issues here with American plugs. However, European and Asian visitors will need an adapter.
• Bed, Sheets, and Furniture Comfort Level: The beds were medium-firm, although one room had a softer, medium feel. The sheets were soft, but the couches were on the stiffer side. Overall comfort level was a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
• Water Pressure & Water Temp: The water temperature was good, and the water pressure was standard. I’d give it 3 out of 4 stars.
• Shuttle Service: There isn’t a shuttle to and from the Orlando International Airport, but shades of green buses do run to the Disney theme parks about every 20 minutes.
• Customer Service: The level of customer service we received on the property, including from the front desk, bell service, maid service, and restaurant waiters, was excellent. We had no issues at all—5 out of 5 stars.
• Bell & Maid service: We used the bell service every time we changed rooms, so they got to know us well. These guys work hard—5 out of 5 stars.
• Customer Complaint Resolution Experience: Since we never had a formal customer complaint, we can’t rate this service.

Critique For the Hotel and Recommendations

I tried to get a good outdoor walk in by opening the gate that leads to the Disney’s Polynesian Village resort, but it was zip-tied closed, so I was stuck on the property. I’m assuming it’s due to the construction on the road, so hopefully, I’ll be able to next time we arrive.

I recommend having another way to exit or getting the gate fixed so folks can enjoy their time how they intend to.

Shades of Green Pools, Water Features and Playground

There are two large pool areas: the Magnolia Pool and the Mill Pond Pool. Both pools are a blast to visit and enjoy, with fun water sport games like volleyball and basketball.

Mill Pond Pool

This pool has everything you could want on vacation. There’s a splash pad for the smaller kids, a large water slide, a basketball hoop, and a deep pool to enjoy. Both pools have a life jacket station for those who aren’t strong swimmers. 

This area is the key spot at the resort and offers so much for the kids. The playground looks new and has a few slides. Next to the playground, in the grass area, is where they host free movie nights with popcorn.

The whole area is full of fun and excitement. One thing to note is that the music and noise last until about 9 PM if you choose a poolside room. It’s not unbearable with the patio doors closed and is hardly noticeable.

The Magnolia Pool

The difference is that the Magnolia Pool area has a hot tub with jets, and they seem to keep the temperature around 102 degrees Fahrenheit. The Magnolia Pool felt more like a hangout spot for older guests.

The Magnolia Pool had a more laid-back, relaxing vibe because it didn’t have all the water features of the other pool area. This pool also had a gently sloped walk-in, known as a beach entry pool.

The pool featured a volleyball net and a water polo course set up for quick games. The patio area had bean bag toss and ladder toss games.The bathrooms and rinse-off shower were located by the hot tub. Unfortunately, the bathrooms did not have showers inside them.

Magnolia Golf Courses

If visiting the parks isn’t on your list but you love golf, this is the place to be. The entire resort is surrounded by Disney’s Palm Golf Course, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, and Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course.

Disney’s Palm Golf Course was redesigned by Arnold Palmer Course Design back in 2015, and the other courses have had recent updates. Shades of Green offers military personnel a 15% discount off the standard pricing of tee times.

Magnolia Golf Courses

If visiting the parks isn’t on your list but you love golf, this is the place to be. The entire resort is surrounded by Disney’s Palm Golf Course, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, and Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course.

Disney’s Palm Golf Course was redesigned by Arnold Palmer Course Design back in 2015, and the other courses have had recent updates. Shades of Green offers military personnel a 15% discount off the standard pricing of tee times.

Things to See at Military Shades of Green Walt Disney Resort 

The Arcade and Mega Size Game Area

While the pools are impressive, what really stood out were the arcade and the massive game area by Evergreen’s Sports Bar. The arcade has tons of games, including plenty of claw machines.

The massive game area had Chess, Connect Four, Checkers, and Jenga. It was right next to the Mill Pond Pool and the playground, making it a great spot to enjoy a game session while waiting for your order from the sports bar. 

Wildlife on the Property

As we entered the property, I noticed ponds on each side of the roadway. I warned the girls to stay away from the ponds because alligators sometimes come out and might try to eat children in this area.

After checking in, we were greeted by a flock of North American wild turkeys as we settled into our first room by the pool. A flock seems to live on the property. They weren’t aggressive at all; I was able to get within seven feet of them to snap some photos.

We never saw any alligators or snakes, despite the warning signs. However, back in 2016, a 2-year-old boy named Lane Thomas Graves was tragically killed by an alligator while playing on the beach outside Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, according to The Guardian.

Where to Buy Disney Park Tickets

You can buy theme park tickets at the Shades of Green Resort. The ticket office is located near the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) store in the main building by the front desk. 

The best deal we found on military tickets is the 6-Day Park Hopper Option. The overall cost per day is the cheapest, totaling $68.16 before tax per day.

Transportation to the Parks

The Shades of Green buses run to the Disney theme parks about every 20 minutes. You can find the buses by the Express Cafe on the lower floor below the hotel lobby.

The café area has restrooms and a water bottle fill station for your convenience. Another perk of staying on Disney property is early theme park entry. Click  here for the bus schedule.

Rental Car Information 

We rented a one-way car from Alamo at Palm Beach Airport and had no issues returning it to the Alamo at Walt Disney World Car Care Center. I dropped the car off and utilized the shuttle services to get back to the resort. 

The service they provided was excellent. When we left, we rented another vehicle from Alamo/Enterprise, and the shuttle service was fast and prompt to Shades of Green. I highly recommend using them if you need a rental car and they provide a discount to military service members. 

Parking Garage

If you are bringing a personal vehicle, they have a large parking garage with a $17 per night per vehicle fee for self-parking.

Shades Of Green Dining Options

Mangino’s Bistro

Manginos is located on the first floor, below the front desk of the resort hotel. We had a great first time here and even got front-row seating into the kitchen, one of my favorite areas to sit so you can experience all the excitement it offers.

We each ordered a glass of wine; I got the Shiraz, which was pretty good. Amanda ordered the salmon with veggies and mashed potatoes. Definitely worth getting if you love a good salmon filet. I ordered the Pasta Alla Ruota, also known as the “Cheese Wheel Pasta”.

The cheese wheel pasta was flavorful, and they give you a show at your tableside. The pasta is tossed in the Grana Padano cheese wheel with the Alfredo sauce after the cheese wheel is blasted with a torch to soften the cheese.

I ordered this dish with shrimp, and for the money, it’s a great value because I couldn’t eat all of it in one sitting. I already had lunch planned out for the next day with the  leftovers, and it’s the restaurant’s most popular dish.

The kids ordered a bolognese and a kids spaghetti, both of which were devoured with no leftovers.

We had a good time at the restaurant, and the food prices were a little bit of extra cost compared to Evergreen’s Sports Bar and Grill. The staff were great, polite, and provided prompt service.

Garden Gallery Restaurant

We had breakfast here, and it wasn’t included in our room rate. The breakfast had a wide range of options and everything you could ask for. They had an omelet station, Mickey Mouse pancakes, and Mickey-shaped waffles.

The waitstaff seats you and takes your drink order. You have free rein at the buffet, which has too many options to choose from. The buffet includes cold items like fruit and yogurt, along with hot items like sausage, eggs, and bacon.

Java Café

The Java Café counter is located across from the front desk at the resort. They offer an assortment of coffees brewed from Starbucks coffee. We ordered a light breakfast from here one morning.

The coffee is what you would expect from a normal Starbucks. I ordered a cinnamon roll, and it was very doughy. I wish every café location sold Cinnabon cinnamon rolls; they are so good. 

Additionally, Java Café has ice cream! They offer 7 assorted flavors, including fan favorites like vanilla and rocky road. For all you Dole Whip lovers, they have the pineapple bliss and two other flavors.

Evergreens Sports Bar and Grill

Evergreens was the place to be during Memorial Day weekend. The fare is pub food and a bar. 

Amanda and I ordered the Cuban sandwich. The last Cuban sandwich I had was in Key West and was extremely delicious. Unfortunately, the sandwich at Evergreens was a major letdown because it tasted like it had turkey instead of roasted pork loin. It was pretty gross.

The beer was good, and the kids’ meals were approved by the kids. However, we made a bad decision by going on a Sunday and later in the day. We entered around 7 pm but didn’t order until around 7:30.

Unfortunately, we didn’t receive our food until around 8:30 pm. This was our bad for not ordering sooner. So, long story short, be prepared for your meal to take an hour to make it to you on a weekend and during a holiday.

I don’t understand how three sandwiches, a basket of chicken strips, fries, and a pretzel take an hour to make and reach your table. This place gets a 2 out of 5 stars. They did not handle the volume well at all and the Cuban sandwich tasted unpleasant. 

The Best Time to Visit & Things to Know About Visiting Military Shades Of Green Walt Disney Resort  

The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Central Florida weather is usually nice year-round, but the height of hurricane season in August and September isn’t so fun.

The heat can be intense, with temperatures around 90 degrees and heat indexes above 95 degrees Fahrenheit, along with high humidity. However, the crowd size is much smaller during this time because of these weather conditions.

During this time, you can find some nice deals. This year, Shades of Green is offering a 15% discount during these months.

The coolest months in the Orlando area are December and January, with an average temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit in January.

Here is a List of the Most Common Questions while Visiting Military Shades Of Green

Can Shades of Green guests use Walt Disney Transportation?

Yes, Shades of Green guests have access to the monorail, ferry boat, and bus transportation that Disney offers on the complex.

Is Shades of Green a pet-friendly resort?

The resort is not pet-friendly at this time. However, service dogs are allowed.

I have a reservation at Shades of Green, can friends and family come to visit me during my stay?

Absolutely! According to the Shades of Green website, your guests are only allowed in the restaurants. 

Should I Stay at the Shades of Green Resort During our Disney Vacation With My Family?

You should stay here if you’re planning to visit the Disney theme parks. We highly recommend it. The amenities are top-notch, and the whole property feels extremely nice. Plus, having the small Exchange store on-site is really convenient.

What’s interesting to me is that the resort was at full capacity for the weekend, yet we managed to get a room. Despite being fully booked, it didn’t feel overcrowded. It felt busy but not overly crowded, and no one was obnoxiously loud or disrespectful.

Our entire stay was great. The afrc resorts truly make you feel welcomed and at home during your stay. This is our second armed forces recreation center resort we have stayed at in the last 3 years and the second military resort for 2024.

Can you have mail sent to Shades of Green?

Yes you can! We had American Airlines completely destroy my suitcase and I had to have another mailed to us at the Shades of Green Resort. You just put the address, your last name & room number in the mailing address. They’ll contact you once it has arrived for pickup.

Final Thoughts

If you have any questions for us ask them below! If you love these reviews give us a follow on Instagram and share this on Facebook! We’d love to connect with you there. If you need more inspo for your trip, also check out our pinterest boards, we curated them just for you.