by Military Diva
Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort is an excellent lodging option for Military, DoD and several other service-related employees and Veterans. Deluxe amenities, Magic Kingdom location and value pricing make this resort a first choice when planning a Disney World vacation.
That’s right, Magic Kingdom location for a fraction of the cost!
Shades of Green sits across the street from Disney World’s Polynesian Resort. While technically considered an off-site resort, SOG guests are invited to participate in Disney’s Extra Magic Hours along with on site Disney World Guests. However, they are not able to participate in the Disney Dining Plan or Disney’s Magical Express. (complimentary transportation from Orlando International Airport).
Magical Express, not an option for off-site guests.
Don’t be discouraged by this lack of service, please!
The above mentioned advantages to staying on Shades of Green Property far outweigh the lack of this one service. And, there are several efficient, affordable transportation options available. Below you will find a few of the most popular services available from Orlando International Airport.
Car Rental
Advantages
*Orlando International Airport has over 14 car rental companies either on-site or a short shuttle away. There is an option for every budget and every size vehicle imaginable.
*The drive from Orlando International to SOG takes less than 40 minutes via I-4.
*Conveniently stop for groceries, drinks and snacks.
*Alamo has an office located on Shades of Green property. You may find it more cost-effective to rent a car for the arrival and departure days only and drop off/pick up at the resort.
*You have a vehicle available to you for any off-site or off-hours transportation needs.
*If you are a member of USAA insurance you can find amazing discounts through their site.
Disadvantages
*There is a $5.00 per day fee for Shades of Green parking.
*Tolls and fuel costs must be considered as part of the cost.
*Rental customers are obviously responsible for their own baggage and driving.
Shared Shuttle/Taxi
Advantages
*Mears Transportation is one of the premier go-to transportation companies in the Orlando area with many services available.
*Mears Shared shuttle is $37 roundtrip per adult, $28 roundtrip per child.
*Mears Taxi service is approximately $90 roundtrip per vehicle.
Disadvangtages
*Your shuttle ride is shared with other guests. The trip could potentially take longer than normal depending of other guests’ travel needs. You could be the first drop off or the last.
*No vehicle for the duration of your vacation. You will rely on Shades of Green and Disney resort transportation -more of a personal preference than a problem.
Airport Service
Advantages
*Orlando is bustling with transportation companies that are well experienced in delivering families from the airport to their destination.
*Luxury vehicles from town cars, full size vans, luxury SUV’s and limousines are used by most companies.
*Cost is usually comparable to other services.
*Many companies offer a complimentary grocery stop where you can stock up on water, snacks, food and toiletry items.
*Personal service, tips on area attractions and dining are often offered by your driver.
*Extend your Magical Experience with this extra bit of luxury!
Shades of Green transportation options
As a family, we have a personal preference for Orlando Airport Town Car Services. Your driver will pick you up in the baggage claim area, help you with your bags, and direct you to your waiting vehicle. They are more than willing to stop at a local store and their cars are always impeccably clean. (In fact our last trip had our driver apologizing for being late…she was still 15 minutes early by our schedule! A dirty spot on the car detoured her into a car wash prior to our pickup.)
We find their services to be an incredible value, especially when compared to the service, advice and assistance offered.
Roundtrip town car service to SOG for up to four passengers is $120; roundtrip SUV service for up to 6 passengers is $170.
Disadvantages
*No vehicle for the duration of your vacation. You will rely on Shades of Green and Disney resort transportation.
*Tip is not included in your quoted cost. It is your choice to determine gratuity and include this extra cost when you arrive at your destination.
The transportation options available to guests traveling from the Orlando International Airport to Disney World are immense. While the convenience of Disney’s Magical Express is often a large draw to guests staying on-site, the lack of this option should not keep you from considering Shades of Green on Walt Disney World. SOG’s value and the ease with which personal transportation can be booked are definitely worth a look!
