Walt Disney World, a realm of enchantment and adventure, stands as a premier vacation destination for families and couples alike. However, the magic of Disney can come with a hefty price tag. Recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of military personnel, Disney World extends a multitude of special offers to active and retired members of the U.S. armed forces, their families, and even their friends. This comprehensive guide unveils the array of available discounts and elucidates how to capitalize on these valuable opportunities to experience The Complete Guide to Military Discounts at Disney World.
Eligibility for Military Discounts
The gateway to unlocking The Complete Guide to Military Discounts at Disney World begins with understanding eligibility. These exclusive offers are available to all active and retired members of the U.S. military, encompassing every branch of service. This includes:
- U.S. Army
- U.S. Navy
- U.S. Air Force
- U.S. Marine Corps
- U.S. Coast Guard
- Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS)
- National Guard
- Reservists
- Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
To avail of these discounts, eligible members must present valid military identification. Spouses, including widows who have not remarried, are also eligible, provided they possess the valid military ID of their spouse or the necessary documentation.
Theme Park Ticket Offers: A Gateway to Magic
Disney World offers several tiers of military discounts on its theme park tickets, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. The most substantial savings are offered through the "Disney Military Promotional Tickets," formerly recognized as the "Armed Forces Salute." These tickets provide heavily discounted multi-day access, allowing for either four or five days of immersive Disney experiences. A significant advantage of these tickets is the automatic inclusion of the Park Hopper option, enabling guests to seamlessly transition between any of Disney World’s four iconic theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom—within a single day.
In 2021, the discounted rates for these passes were $296 for a 4-day pass and $315 for a 5-day pass. Considering that the non-discounted prices for comparable passes begin at $496 and $525 respectively, the savings can amount to at least 40%. This percentage can escalate during peak seasons, such as mid-summer, when Disney World typically charges higher rates for its multi-day passes. The resort maintains a consistent price for its Military Promotional Tickets, irrespective of the time of year, further amplifying the value proposition.
For an additional $30 per ticket, guests can elevate their experience with the Park Hopper Plus option. This upgrade grants access to Disney World’s two captivating water parks—Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach—as well as Disney’s Wide World of Sports, the NBA Experience at Disney Springs, and a round of golf at the resort’s Oak Trail Golf Course or its two miniature golf courses.
Key Considerations for Disney Military Promotional Tickets:
- These tickets must be purchased by an eligible service member or their spouse.
- The eligible service member or spouse must also activate the tickets and be present at the time of first use.
- There is a limit on the number of tickets that can be purchased per eligible service member.
- These tickets are typically subject to blackout dates, which vary from year to year.
- Tickets and options are non-transferable and exclude activities/events separately priced or not open to the general public.
Alternative Ticket Options
For those planning to visit Disney World during blackout dates or seeking ticket options beyond the 4- and 5-day passes, the resort provides alternative military discounts on its other ticket offerings. However, it’s important to note that these discounts are generally around 5% off the regular price, a less substantial saving compared to the Promotional Tickets.
Another avenue for securing discounted theme park tickets is through the Military Salute passes available at the ticket office of Disney World’s Shades of Green hotel (detailed further below). These multi-day passes extend up to ten days and incorporate both Park Hopper and Park Hopper Plus benefits. The savings range from approximately 3% to 12% off the standard price. Anyone eligible to stay at Shades of Green can purchase these Stars and Stripes passes.
Acquiring Military Discounted Theme Park Tickets
Several convenient channels exist for purchasing these discounted tickets. One option is to visit a military base ticket office in person or contact them via phone. However, it’s advisable to check the availability of specific tickets beforehand, as some offices may need to ship the desired tickets.
Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in person at any Disney World ticket window. A past drawback of this option was the inability to make FastPass+ ride reservations in advance. However, with Disney’s transition to the Disney Genie system, which allows guests to make same-day ride reservations, this is no longer a concern.
Another avenue to purchase tickets in advance or in person is through the Shades of Green ticket sales office. To initiate the process of buying tickets in advance from Shades of Green, send an email to ticketinfo@shadesofgreen.org.
Accommodations: Shades of Green
Nestled between two of Disney World’s picturesque golf courses, Shades of Green stands as a unique on-property hotel with a rich history. Originally known as the Golf Resort and open to the general public, it has evolved into a 600-room haven exclusively owned and operated by the U.S. military, offering discounted rates to eligible service members.
Shades of Green is comparable to Disney World’s Deluxe resorts, such as Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. However, its rates are significantly lower than those charged by Disney for its hotels. Eligible service members can make reservations up to one year in advance, and due to the hotel’s popularity, early booking is highly recommended.
Active and retired military members (or their eligible spouses) can reserve up to three rooms at Shades of Green. The hotel’s suites and rooms can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests. Whether or not staying at the hotel, eligible service members can access its ticket office and dine at its diverse restaurants.
Other Disney World Hotel Discounts
Disney World boasts a diverse selection of on-property hotels, each offering enticing benefits such as extended theme park hours, an extended window for making attraction reservations, and complimentary ground transportation from Orlando International Airport to the resort. If Shades of Green is fully booked or if a different lodging experience is desired, Disney World provides military discounts at select hotels.
These discounted rates typically range from 30% to 40% off the hotel’s rack rates. Similar to Shades of Green, eligible service members can book up to three rooms at participating hotels. However, it’s prudent to compare these discounts with other promotions and packages offered to the general public to ensure the best value.
Important Notes on Disney World’s Military Discounts for Hotels:
- Discounts are subject to availability and may vary depending on the time of year.
- Blackout dates may apply.
- Advance reservations are highly recommended.
- Eligibility requirements are the same as for theme park tickets.
Additional Military Discounts at Disney World
Beyond theme park tickets and accommodations, Disney World extends its appreciation to military personnel with additional discounts.
Eligible service members can purchase the Memory Maker photo and video service at a reduced price. Part of PhotoPass, this service allows visitors to download unlimited photos and videos taken by Disney’s photographers throughout the parks. Memory Maker also includes discounts on photo prints. Regularly priced at $169, Disney World offers Memory Maker at $98 to eligible service members.
While there are no direct military discounts at Disney World-operated restaurants, select third-party restaurants at Disney Springs, such as Raglan Road and House of Blues, offer savings ranging from 10% to 25%. The website Military Disney Tips provides a comprehensive list of participating restaurants. Shades of Green features on-site restaurants, including the full-service Mangino’s.
Tee times at Disney World’s four golf courses can be booked with a military discount.
Beyond Disney: Universal Orlando and Other Attractions
Shades of Green offers discounted Military Promotional Tickets to Universal Orlando, including specially-priced 4-day, park-to-park tickets at significant savings, as well as 1-day and other passes at more modest discounts. The hotel also provides discounted military tickets to SeaWorld Orlando, Legoland Florida, and other nearby parks and attractions.
In 2021, Universal Orlando introduced the Military Freedom Pass, with prices starting at $199.99 for an adult, two-park ticket, valid throughout the year without blackout dates. These tickets must be purchased at an authorized Military Ticket & Travel Office. Universal Orlando also offers discounted vacation packages and hotel stays.
SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offer complimentary admission to veterans and active duty members through the Waves of Honor program. Veterans can receive a one-day ticket for themselves and up to three guests through the end of June. Active duty members can receive a one-day ticket for themselves and up to three guests annually, with no blackout dates.
Conclusion
The Complete Guide to Military Discounts at Disney World demonstrates Disney’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices of military personnel. By understanding the eligibility requirements, exploring the various ticket options, and leveraging the available discounts on accommodations, dining, and other experiences, military families can create unforgettable memories at Disney World while maximizing their budget. Remember to always verify the most up-to-date information and policies directly with Disney World or Shades of Green before planning your trip, as offers and details may change.
