1901 Lounge: Secrets Revealed & Questions Answered
The 1901 Lounge is arguably the best-kept secret in Disney California Adventure Park. While most people walk by the Carthay Circle Theatre without a second glance at the door located to the right of the main entrance, a select few know that there is a highly exclusive sanctuary.
Located just past that door. If you are interested in learning more about what exactly the 1901 Lounge is, how you can get into the 1901 Lounge, and what makes this highly exclusive venue different from Club 33, then you are in the right place as we will cover everything you need to know for your 2026 visit!
What is the 1901 Lounge?
The 1901 Lounge is a private club located in Disney California Adventure Park and is a part of the massive expansion project undertaken by Disney in 2012. Named after the year in which Walt Disney was born, 1901 is a members-only club designed to resemble a den rather than a lavish venue like Club 33 located in Disneyland Park.
The 1901 Lounge is designed in a style reminiscent of when Walt Disney first arrived in California in the 1920s and features a dark wood and leather furniture aesthetic that is reminiscent of a living room in which Disney animators might have gathered to share stories of their adventures.
How Do You Get Into the 1901 Lounge?
This is the question on every Disney fan’s mind! Unlike the Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge located below it, which is open to anyone with a reservation, 1901 is a members-only club and can only be accessed by members of Club 33.
The Membership Requirement
To gain access into 1901, you must hold a Platinum or Executive Membership level in Club 33. While Disney World does offer its own set of lounges, the 1901 Lounge is one perk exclusive to the California members.
Can Guests Visit?
Yes, but with one huge catch.
The Member Must Be Present. Unlike the main dining room at Club 33, where the member can actually call up and reserve the room for their friends even if they can’t attend, the 1901 Lounge requires the member to actually be present with their guest.
No Reservations. Unlike the main dining room, the 1901 Lounge is on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply scan your membership card to determine if there is seating availability.
Inside the Lounge: Atmosphere and Decor.
The magic of the 1901 Lounge is the history. Disney has decorated the lounge with the member’s own photographs, sketches, and memorabilia from the early days of the Walt Disney Studios.
Walt’s Shadow: One of the coolest "Easter Eggs" is the shadow of Walt Disney. Every few minutes, the lounge projects the shadow of Walt Disney walking by the window or checking his watch to give the impression that the man himself is still with us.
Personal Touches: Disney even goes so far as to designate the "director’s corner" with Disney animation directors named after the original animators and executives who helped Walt Disney build his empire.
Food and Drink at 1901.
The 1901 menu is designed by the best culinary minds at Carthay Circle. While it is not as extensive as the menu at the main dining room, the appetizers and drinks are top-notch.
Signature Cocktails: They are famous for their pre-Prohibition cocktails. The "1901," which is similar to a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned, is a standard cocktail.
Small Plates: Expect upscale versions of sliders, cheese plates, and flatbreads.
Dress Code: While 1901 is considered "Smart Casual," which means you can wear nice jeans and a clean shirt, it's a big jump from the usual theme park attire of sweaty tees and flip flops.
1901 vs. Club 33: What’s the Difference?
Many guests confuse the two, but they serve very different purposes:
Is it Worth the Hype?
For the average guest, 1901 remains a mystery behind a locked door. However, should you ever have the chance to visit as a guest of a member, it is the most serene and historically engaging experience in any of the Disney parks. It is not simply a bar; it is a tribute to the man who started it all.
Pro-Tip: If you’re looking to "spot" the entrance, look for the small brass "1901" plaque to the right of the Carthay Circle entrance. Just remember to use your camera discretely—Disney has a strict privacy policy for its members!
