Shades of Green is a popular hotel located on Walt Disney World property in Florida. It is owned and operated by the U.S. Department of Defense and is only open to U.S. military personnel, retirees, and their families. Many retirees enjoy staying at Shades of Green due to its affordable rates, proximity to the Disney parks, and military-friendly atmosphere. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order for retirees to stay at this exclusive hotel.
Shades of Green Eligibility
In order to stay at Shades of Green, guests must be sponsored by an eligible member of the U.S. Uniformed Services, whether active duty, retired, or Reserve/National Guard. The eligible sponsoring member can sponsor up to 3 guest rooms. Guests must also show valid military identification upon check-in.
For retired military members, the following forms of identification grant access to Shades of Green:
| Branch | Acceptable ID |
|---|---|
| Army | Retired ID card |
| Navy | Retired ID card |
| Air Force | Retired ID card |
| Marines | Retired ID card |
| Coast Guard | Retired ID card |
As long as retired members of the military have a valid retired ID card, they are eligible to stay at Shades of Green. Their spouses are also eligible as long as they are registered in DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System).
Booking a Stay
Since Shades of Green is run by the Department of Defense, the booking process is a bit different than other hotels. There are a few options available for retirees to book a stay:
– Call the Central Reservation Office (CRO) at 1-888-593-2242. Retirees can call this number to check availability and make reservations.
– Book online at shadesofgreen.org. Retirees can check real-time room availability and pricing and complete the booking online.
– Use a travel agent. Many military-friendly travel agents can also book rooms at Shades of Green.
No matter which method is used, retirees will need to show eligibility by providing their military retired ID card at check-in. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance.
Room Rates
One of the biggest perks of staying at Shades of Green is the affordable room rates, which are exclusive for eligible military members and their families. Here are the current 2023 room rates:
| Room Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Standard Room | $165 + tax |
| Poolside Room | $210 + tax |
| Deluxe Room | $250 + tax |
| Family Suite | $400 + tax |
These rates are significantly lower than nearby Walt Disney World resorts. And the on-property location means easy transportation to all 4 theme parks.
Additional pessoas staying in the room (up to 4 total) are just $15 more per night. Children under 3 stay for free. Such affordable rates make Shades of Green extremely popular with retirees and military families.
On-Site Amenities
In addition to the convenient location and low rates, Shades of Green offers plenty of amenities to keep guests comfortable during their stay:
– 586 guest rooms, including standard, poolside, and deluxe rooms plus family suites
– On-site restaurants – Garden Gallery, Mangino’s, and Express Cafe
– Heated pools, kiddie pool, hot tubs
– Fitness center, tennis courts
– Walking trails, outdoor recreation
– Laundry facilities
– Free scheduled transportation to Disney theme parks
– Military ticket office for discounted Walt Disney World tickets
– Access to other military recreation options in Orlando
Whether relaxing at the pool or catching Disney fireworks from the balcony, retirees have everything needed for an enjoyable vacation close at hand. The military flair adds a sense of familiarity as well.
Walt Disney World Perks
One of the best parts of staying at Shades of Green is the location nestled right between two Walt Disney World theme parks – Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Not only is the hotel just minutes away from the parks by complimentary shuttle, but guests also enjoy these special Walt Disney World perks:
– Allowed 60-day FastPass+ reservation window (most get 30 days)
– Extra Magic Hours access for early/late park entry
– Complimentary theme park parking, normally $25 per day
– Charging privileges with MagicBand at theme parks and Disney Springs
– Package delivery from Disney theme parks to hotel
– Access to select dining discounts and reservations
These extra perks enhance the Disney experience, perfect for military retirees and families. The Low transportation cost and ease of access allows guests to take full advantage of the theme parks and attractions.
Dining Options
Dining at Shades of Green is convenient, affordable, and tailored to military members. Options include:
– Garden Gallery: This buffet-style restaurant serves American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their theme nights highlight different world cuisines.
– Mangino’s: For Italian dining, this restaurant offers pasta, brick oven pizza, and other hearty dishes for lunch and dinner.
– Express Café: Quick breakfast and lunch options like sandwiches, burgers, and café drinks are served at this fast-casual spot.
– Mickey’s Retreat: Located next to the lobby, this lounge has TVs, coffee, and cocktails plus snacks and light meals.
– Java Café: Early risers can get their coffee fix at Java Café near the front entrance.
– In-room dining: A limited menu is available for delivery right to guest rooms.
The affordable prices make dining at Shades of Green easy for retirees on a budget. And with both casual and formal options, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
Off-Site Options
In addition to amenities at Shades of Green itself, the hotel’s proximity to Walt Disney World also grants easy access to:
– 4 world-class theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom
– 2 water parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon
– Disney Springs for shopping, dining, and entertainment
– Golf courses like Palm, Magnolia, and Oak Trail
– Spa treatments and salon services
– Recreation like boating and fishing
– Other Orlando attractions like SeaWorld, Universal, and more
Military retirees have their pick of things to do with so many options just minutes away from their Shades of Green hotel. Off-site dining, recreation, entertainment and more are easily accessible.
Conclusion
In summary, military retirees and their families can absolutely stay at Shades of Green in Walt Disney World. As long as retired members have a valid form of military ID, they can book rooms at exclusive discounted rates. Shades of Green offers comfortable on-site amenities tailored specifically to the military along with prized access and perks for enjoying nearby theme parks. With both affordability and location, Shades of Green is a premier vacation spot for retirees to relax and make magical memories.
