5 Things You Might Not Know About Shades of Green Resort

There’s always been a bit of mystery surrounding Shades of Green, the military resort on Walt Disney World property. My family is currently staying at the resort, and even though we’ve stayed here multiple times over the years,  I still found a few surprises. If you’re planning a stay or just curious about this resort’s uniqueness, here are five things I (re)learned that might help you plan your next vacation.

#5 Yes, There’s a Ceiling Fan in My Room.

As someone who now lives in Florida again, a ceiling fan has become non-negotiable for a good night’s sleep. Imagine my delight when I walked into our room and spotted one. It’s a small detail, but for many guests it can make a stay much more comfortable.

Now, if they only had a make-up mirror.

#4 There are Two Months of the Year When Veterans Can Stay at Shades of Green.

I won’t get into all of the qualifications here about which families are eligible year-round. Please be on the lookout for the extended article about the resort; it’s coming soon. But I will let you know that you may be eligible in January and September if you were honorably discharged.

Pro tip- make that reservation as soon as you can, this resort can fill up fast!

#3 Shades of Green Buses Park at the TTC.

This one might surprise you. Shades of Green guests do qualify for Early Theme Park Entry and even for the Extended Evening Hours offered at Disney’s Deluxe resorts. But, they do not have access to Disney transportation. Instead, they operate their own bus transportation that parks with chartered buses, including the Ticket and Transportation Center for Magic Kingdom and Epcot.

#2 You Must Show Your Guest ID and Your Photo ID to Access the Buses.

Do not make my mistake.

Let me begin by saying, yes, this was explained to me at check-in. Unfortunately, I thought they meant the resort guest ID.

My dad and I missed a bus because I didn’t have my photo ID. I was with my sponsor (my dad, who, of course, had all of his credentials), but I was not able to board the bus without proper identification. So I ran to the room, and we caught the next bus- 30 minutes later.

#1 The Lobby has Starbucks Coffee and Dole Whip!

Yes, really.

Shades of Green offers two treats that many Disney resort guests wish they had- Starbucks Coffee and Dole Whip.

The Java Cafe’, located right in the lobby, serves real Starbucks beverages, familiar pastries, and a few fun surprises. Kids may beeline to the hand-scooped ice cream- strategically displayed at kids’ eye level, and adults will appreciate that beloved swirl of pineapple perfection.

For many Disney fans, the ability to grab a fresh Starbucks latte and a Dole Whip before they even leave the resort is reason enough to love Shades of Green.

Bonus

Because it’s new, news- as of November 17th, 2025 Shades of Green is cashless. Payments can be made using a credit card, Military Star, or room charge. AAFES Exchange has tap-to-pay and prepaid gift cards.