SHADES OF GREEN at Walt Disney World Resort Information & Questions

[emksmama]

I know check in at SoG isn't until 1500, but if we get there around noon, will we be able to use the pool or anything like that? We are driving straight through from central Indiana, leaving around 6pm Saturday night. My parents (Dad is the DoD member) will stop in GA somewhere, so I don't know if they'll get there by noon or not...I bet we'll all be there before check in.

Also, do we need my Dad (and his military ID) to even walk in there? Just trying to get our timing synchronized!

 

[WDW 3]

I guess it's a Disney thing about the putting ropes at the queues. Really the only ones roped are the "primo" bus stops at the 4 major parks.
We really have had no issues with waiting, but we have never had a stroller or anything else. Just us. Ad a roped queue and we'd have to wait standing in line. At the end of the day I like the bench

 

[buffettgirl]

I know check in at SoG isn't until 1500, but if we get there around noon, will we be able to use the pool or anything like that? We are driving straight through from central Indiana, leaving around 6pm Saturday night. My parents (Dad is the DoD member) will stop in GA somewhere, so I don't know if they'll get there by noon or not...I bet we'll all be there before check in.

Also, do we need my Dad (and his military ID) to even walk in there? Just trying to get our timing synchronized!

You won't be able to check in without your father there but once he gets there and you check in, you'll be free to use the pools even if your room isn't ready. They'll hold your luggage for you.

 

[WDW 3]

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/

The rest of the World will be getting Starbucks.

 

[jusero]

I know check in at SoG isn't until 1500, but if we get there around noon, will we be able to use the pool or anything like that? We are driving straight through from central Indiana, leaving around 6pm Saturday night. My parents (Dad is the DoD member) will stop in GA somewhere, so I don't know if they'll get there by noon or not...I bet we'll all be there before check in.

Also, do we need my Dad (and his military ID) to even walk in there? Just trying to get our timing synchronized!

You won't be able to actually check in until your sponsor gets there, but they will let you in the gate and you can park in the visitor parking (to the right of the resort) if you are driving. If not, I am sure the concierge will take and hold your bags since you are registered guests. Then you can hang around the hotel and chill, or hop one of the Shades buses to Downtown Disney or you could walk across the street and chill at the Polynesian. And, if your dad gets there before 3, they sometimes let you check in early. Depends if your rooms are ready.

But, it would not hurt to ask at the front desk if you can check in before your dad gets there. Most likely no, but can't hurt to ask.

 

[Praying Colonel]

This is our first time at SOG so we will be total newbies to the transport and food aspects at the resort.
I appreciate all the info.
We have requested a room based on information on the SOG thread (old one). Do request typical get granted or is it just luck of the draw? We are renting two rooms and have also requested adjoining or at least nearby each other.
Are there tables or benches at the food window by the transport area at Sog? We might try the breakfast buffet a couple times but will most likely opt for quick and easy.
We are eligible for SOG based on DOD rank. Will we be able to use the store at SOG for food, disney, ect....items? What about beer, wine, and alcohol?
Is the spa at SOG worth the $$ ?

DW and I did an empty-nester trip for F&W in Oct 2010 and did a couples massage at the spa. I don't recall how much it was, but don't believe it was cost-prohibitive. We thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it!

 

[mmtska]

I know check in at SoG isn't until 1500, but if we get there around noon, will we be able to use the pool or anything like that? We are driving straight through from central Indiana, leaving around 6pm Saturday night. My parents (Dad is the DoD member) will stop in GA somewhere, so I don't know if they'll get there by noon or not...I bet we'll all be there before check in.

Also, do we need my Dad (and his military ID) to even walk in there? Just trying to get our timing synchronized!

If your dad faxes a letter stating his information and saying you can check in before him, you will be allowed to check in. He would just need to fill out the paperwork when he shows up, and you would have to provide some sort of payment.

Other than that, the bell stand will hold your luggage, and you can hang out in the lobby, or check out the pools.

 

[emksmama]

Awesome! Thanks for the info on early arrivals...we are driving, so I'll make sure to pack a smaller separate bag of pool gear.

 

[AlwaysMoving]

Awesome! Thanks for the info on early arrivals...we are driving, so I'll make sure to pack a smaller separate bag of pool gear.

Unless things have changed, you will need to check in and get a room key before you can park in the garage.

 

[stitchrulz]

Subscribing . . .

 

[jusero]

Unless things have changed, you will need to check in and get a room key before you can park in the garage.

That is true, but there is short term parking in the open parking lot to the right of the resort. It's the one for the golf clubs, but Shades guests can park there for short periods. At least, that is what I have been told. You might want to call to double check. Would not want you to get a ticket or towed for misinformation.

 

[mmtska]

Unless things have changed, you will need to check in and get a room key before you can park in the garage.

Since you aren't allowed to park out front anymore (you basically can pull up and unload...but then you have to move) you can get into the garage without a key.

 

[robin19871]

Unless things have changed, you will need to check in and get a room key before you can park in the garage.

Actually, I did notice that NO key was necessary for the first time ever at the parking garage.. (The gates were still there and went up and down when you approached them.) However, When you check in they do ask if you are driving and will charge the $5.00 a day.

 

[AlwaysMoving]

Actually, I did notice that NO key was necessary for the first time ever at the parking garage.. (The gates were still there and went up and down when you approached them.) However, When you check in they do ask if you are driving and will charge the $5.00 a day.

How will they know for sure you have a car unless they are going on the honor system?

 

[jusero]

Just called and my ticket preorder form will be here tomorrow or Thursday!!!!!

We are getting so derned close I just can't contain myself. I am sure I will be annoying as all get-out for the next week to all those around me.

 

[WDW 3]

Just called and my ticket preorder form will be here tomorrow or Thursday!!!!!

We are getting so derned close I just can't contain myself. I am sure I will be annoying as all get-out for the next week to all those around me.

Sooo Jealous I'm green.

We did just get back from Disneyland so I shouldn't complain but it's not the same. Disneyland Park is awkward (it doesn't flow as smoothly as Magic Kindgom). Sleeping Beauty castle is teeny (that was a surprise). California Adventure was the best but sooo much under construction. And finally it was Spring break/Easter season. Loved Paradise Pier but holy smokes even with the military discount it was $100 more each night. We will be going back but on our own schedule (this was planned around a meeting) and really check it out.

 

[buffettgirl]

ooh Jusero! nice nice!!

 

[Tink0513]

Hey there-
Will be at SOG May 5-12th! 11 days I CANT WAIT!!!!

I cancelled my Rental Car for numerous reasons, but I forgot there is one day I have and early ADR at HS at 8am. According to the schedule their first bus doesn't run until half hour before park opening which would be 8:30a. To all you Shades Veterans...what is the best way to get to my 8am ADR?????

Thanks for your help!

 

[buffettgirl]

I would just get a taxi orr get yourself to Poly and see if you can get an early bus from there.

 

[jusero]

Sooo Jealous I'm green.

We did just get back from Disneyland so I shouldn't complain but it's not the same. Disneyland Park is awkward (it doesn't flow as smoothly as Magic Kindgom). Sleeping Beauty castle is teeny (that was a surprise). California Adventure was the best but sooo much under construction. And finally it was Spring break/Easter season. Loved Paradise Pier but holy smokes even with the military discount it was $100 more each night. We will be going back but on our own schedule (this was planned around a meeting) and really check it out.

Did you get to go on the Indiana Jones ride??