There's something magical about walking through New Orleans Square at Disneyland and spotting that mysterious green door with the tiny "33" plaque. Most guests stroll right past it without a second thought. But if you know what's behind that door, your heart skips a beat! This is Club 33—the original members-only sanctuary that Walt Disney himself dreamed up but never got to see completed!

Since 1967, Club 33 has been Disneyland's best-kept secret hiding in plain sight above Pirates of the Caribbean. It's where celebrities escape the crowds, where business executives close deals over filet mignon, and where Disney superfans drop serious money for a taste of exclusivity you can't find anywhere else in the park! Whether you're hoping to join one day, dreaming of scoring an invite, or just curious about what really goes on up there, this guide's got all the insider info you need about Disneyland's most legendary dining experience!

What Makes Club 33 at Disneyland So Special?

Let's get one thing straight: Club 33 isn't just another fancy restaurant. This is the OG—the original club that started it all back in 1967. While Disney's expanded the concept to other parks around the world, nothing compares to the history, prestige, and mystique of the Disneyland location!

Tucked away in New Orleans Square, Club 33 sits above Pirates of the Caribbean and next to what was once Walt's private apartment. The location alone tells you everything about how important this space was to Walt. He wanted his private club close by, where he could entertain VIPs, corporate sponsors, and dignitaries in an elegant setting away from park guests.

What really sets Disneyland's Club 33 apart? For starters, this was the only place in Disneyland serving alcohol for almost 50 years. Yeah, you read that right—from 1967 until Oga's Cantina opened in Galaxy's Edge in 2019, Club 33 held the exclusive liquor license inside Disneyland Park. That's pretty wild when you think about it!

But it's more than just booze and fancy food. Disneyland's Club 33 carries Walt's fingerprints in ways the other locations simply can't. Even though he passed away five months before it opened, this was his vision, his project, his club. That history makes it the most coveted Club 33 location, hands down!

The Story Behind Club 33: How a Disagreement Created Disney History

Here's a story most people don't know: Club 33 exists because Walt and General Electric couldn't agree on whether to serve alcohol at Disneyland.

Back in the mid-1960s, Walt was working with GE to bring attractions from the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair to Disneyland. At the Fair, Walt saw these impressive VIP lounges where corporate sponsors entertained guests—complete with full bars. GE wanted to recreate that experience at Disneyland, including the bar.

But Walt had a problem with that. Disneyland was a dry park by design. Walt believed alcohol led to the rowdy carnival atmosphere he was trying to avoid. He wanted families to feel safe and comfortable, and in his mind, booze didn't fit that vision.

GE pushed back hard. They insisted on having a bar as part of their sponsorship deal. Walt refused. They hit a standstill that threatened to tank the entire agreement.

So Walt offered a compromise that changed Disneyland forever: he'd build a separate, ultra-exclusive VIP lounge in the New Orleans Square area that was under construction. It would be limited to corporate sponsors and hand-picked guests. It'd be the only place in the park serving alcohol, but only alongside meals—no separate bar service. The general public wouldn't have access.

GE agreed, and Club 33 was born out of necessity and negotiation. What started as a business compromise became one of the most legendary locations in Disney history!

The Name: Why "33"?

Good question! There are a few theories floating around about where the name came from.

The official Disney explanation? It's named after the club's original address: 33 Royal Street in New Orleans Square. Simple, straightforward, and probably true. But c'mon, this is Disney—they could've made the address anything they wanted, right?

Other theories suggest Walt liked the number 3, or it references Disneyland's physical address at 1313 Harbor Boulevard. Some folks believe it represents the original 33 corporate sponsors of Disneyland when the club opened.

There's even a theory connecting it to the repeal of Prohibition, which ended in 1933 (the 21st Amendment repealed the 18th Amendment in that year). Since Club 33 was the first place serving alcohol at Disneyland, the connection has some merit.

Truth is, nobody knows for sure except maybe a few Disney executives who aren't talking. But the mystery just adds to the allure, doesn't it?

Finding the Entrance: Where Club 33 Hides in Plain Sight

Club 33's entrance has changed over the years, but it's always been tucked away in New Orleans Square, just steps from the Blue Bayou Restaurant and Pirates of the Caribbean exit!

The Original Entrance (1967-2014):
For decades, you'd enter through a door at 33 Royal Street, right next to the Blue Bayou. The door was painted in "Go Away Green"—that special Disney shade designed to blend into the background so guests don't really notice it. There was just a small brass "33" plaque on the door frame. Unless you knew what to look for, you'd walk right past it.

The Current Entrance (2014-Present):
After the major 2014 renovation and expansion, Disney relocated the entrance to the Court of Angels (Court des Anges). This used to be a charming, publicly-accessible courtyard with cast iron tables where anyone could sit and enjoy the atmosphere. Now it's exclusively for Club 33 members and their guests!

You'll enter through the courtyard, which features beautiful New Orleans-style balconies, wrought iron details, and cobblestone ground. It's absolutely gorgeous—and totally private. Members tap their RFID membership card on the Club 33 logo to gain access (same tech as MagicBands). If you're a guest, you'll get buzzed in and greeted by reception staff.

From there, you can take either the curved staircase or the Art Nouveau-themed elevator up to the second floor where the magic really begins!

Inside Club 33: What You'll Actually See

Walking into Club 33 feels like stepping into another world. One minute you're in a bustling theme park, the next you're in an elegant social club that could exist in any major city—except this one's inside Disneyland!

The Entrance Hall

After you head upstairs, you'll enter a reception area with a beautiful desk where cast members greet you. Next to reception, there's a guest book where you can sign your name and leave a message. Do it! It's part of the tradition!

Right there in the entrance hall, you'll also find a small boutique selling exclusive Club 33 merchandise you can't buy anywhere else. We're talking Loungefly bags, ears, pins, ornaments, scarves, playing cards, glassware—all featuring the Club 33 logo and designs. Recent additions include tons of merch featuring Alfred the turkey vulture (more on him in a sec).

If you're visiting as a guest, ask your member if you can purchase merch. Some items are members-only, but most can be bought by anyone who's inside the club!

Meet Alfred: The Unofficial Mascot

Standing atop the grandfather clock in the entrance hall, you'll see Alfred—a taxidermied turkey vulture who's become the unofficial mascot of Club 33. He's been there since the club opened, and recent merchandise features him prominently. Because nothing says "Disney magic" quite like a dead bird watching over your fancy dinner, right? (He's actually pretty cool, and members love him.)

The Hallway

A long, elegant hallway lined with wine cabinets leads from the entrance toward the dining areas. Along the way, you'll pass four themed booths with different Disney inspirations: Haunted Mansion, Matterhorn, Mark Twain, and sailing ships. If you look closely at the artwork in these booths, some of the paintings actually move! It's subtle Disney Imagineering at its finest!

There's also a phone booth from the movie "The Happiest Millionaire" tucked in there. History and Disney details everywhere you look!

Le Grand Salon: The Main Dining Room

This is where members and their guests enjoy the prix fixe dining experience. Le Grand Salon is elegant and sophisticated, featuring dark wood flooring, deep red walls, ornate chandeliers, and antique wall sconces.

After the 2014 renovation, Disney upgraded the finishes significantly. The room now has marble flooring in some areas, Art Nouveau design elements, and an overall feeling of refined luxury. Big windows overlook New Orleans Square, so you can watch park guests below while dining in your private sanctuary!

The art throughout showcases original Disneyland and New Orleans Square concept designs. There are Disney Easter eggs scattered everywhere if you know where to look.

Service is impeccable. Your water glass never drops below half full. Cast members treat you like royalty but maintain that warm Disney friendliness. The vibe is formal yet welcoming—you're clearly somewhere special, but it's not stuffy or pretentious.

The Menu:
Le Grand Salon serves a 4-course prix fixe menu that changes seasonally. Everyone in your party must order the prix fixe—no à la carte options available. Chef Andrew Sutton (who also oversees Napa Rose and Carthay Circle) heads up the culinary team, with Chef de Cuisine Gloria Tae managing the day-to-day kitchen operations.

Current pricing (as of 2024-2025):

4-course prix fixe: $120-$150 per person
Optional wine pairing: $49-$69 additional

The menu rotates regularly, but past offerings have included:

Pan-roasted scallops
Seared romaine salad
Walt's blue cheese crusted filet mignon (an original fan favorite that members demanded they bring back)
Lilian's "trifle" lemon cake
Sustainable fish preparations (like California white bass from the Channel Islands)
Duck breast
Chateaubriand for the holidays
French onion soup
Seasonal soups and appetizers

Reviews consistently praise the food quality, comparing it to a 1-2 Michelin star experience! That said, some guests note it's not quite as mind-blowing as Napa Rose, which is considered one of Disneyland's absolute best dining experiences. But you're not just paying for the food—you're paying for the history, the exclusivity, and the ambiance.

Reservations must be made by a member up to two weeks in advance for guests. Meals typically last 3+ hours, and you're encouraged to take your time, explore, and soak in the atmosphere!

Le Salon Nouveau: The Jazz Lounge

If Le Grand Salon is the formal dining room, Le Salon Nouveau is where you kick back and relax. This is the more casual side of Club 33, where members can grab drinks, appetizers, or lighter meals without making a reservation.

Le Salon Nouveau opened in 2014 as part of the expansion, and it's absolutely stunning. The design is inspired by the Art Nouveau movement with heavy influence from "The Princess and the Frog." Think New Orleans jazz lounge meets Disney magic.

Features include:

A gorgeous stained glass ceiling
Beautiful woodwork throughout
A self-playing piano
Artwork that "comes to life" when musicians play (subtle animation effects)
The old French elevator converted into a cozy booth for small parties
A bar with seats labeled "Walt" and "Lillian"
A cabinet stocked with prestige spirits that'll make your eyes water when you see the prices

The drink menu is extensive—we're talking a 20-page book with cocktails, wines, and premium spirits. Signature drinks include the Hurricane cocktail, Clover Club cocktail, and Club 33 coffee.

Popular lounge menu items:

Club 33 Burger with Brie (members requested this be brought back, and it's become a favorite)
Kiwi-marinated steak
Beer-battered onion rings (another member favorite)
Warm pretzels with cheese fondue
Sandwiches and appetizers
Walt's Chili (brought back by popular demand)
Full dessert menu

You need to be with a member to access Le Salon Nouveau—no reservations for unaccompanied guests like you can do for Le Grand Salon. But it's worth it if you get the chance! The vibe is more relaxed than the main dining room, but still luxurious and exclusive!

The Balcony

Both Le Grand Salon and Le Salon Nouveau have access to private balconies overlooking New Orleans Square. It's one of those pinch-me moments—you're literally above Disneyland, watching parades, seeing the park from a perspective almost nobody gets to experience!

If you're dining during Fantasmic, you can watch the show from the balcony, which is incredible. Same goes for parades and fireworks. Just ask your server if the balcony is open (sometimes it's closed due to weather).

The Bathrooms (Yes, Really!)

Seriously, the bathrooms at Club 33 deserve their own section. They're gorgeous, with complimentary mouthwash and other amenities that make you feel like you're in a luxury hotel!

CRITICAL RULE: DO NOT take photos or videos in the bathrooms. This is specifically prohibited and has gotten members suspended or even expelled. Rebel Wilson got suspended for 30 days for posting bathroom photos. Don't be like Rebel. Enjoy the fancy facilities, but leave your phone in your pocket.

Getting Into Club 33 at Disneyland: The Membership Journey

Alright, let's talk about the elephant in the room—how do you actually become a member?

Step 1: Express Your Interest

You can't just walk up with cash and demand membership. Club 33 is invitation-only, but you can express your interest to get on their radar.

Email: Club33@Disneyland.com

Or write to:
Club 33 Member Services
1600 S. Disneyland Drive
Anaheim, CA 92802

Disney will put you on their interest list. But here's the catch—submitting your interest doesn't guarantee anything. Disney's website basically says they'll contact you "at their sole discretion," which means they're looking for specific types of people!

Who are they looking for? Business executives, Disney super-fans with deep pockets, celebrities, people with influence, and folks who'll represent the club well. They want members who'll use the club regularly and conduct themselves appropriately.

They look at you as an all around person, do help in your community, your family, your job, charities you donate to, etc. Like we said, it’s incredibly difficult to get in!

Step 2: The Waiting Game

Once you've expressed interest, prepare to wait. Disneyland's Club 33 waitlist is rumored to be around 5-10 years long. Some members have waited over a decade before getting that golden invitation.

Recently, Disney's been more aggressive about recruiting new members (they even added a membership inquiry page to the app in April 2025), so the timeline might be shortening. But don't hold your breath—demand far exceeds supply, and membership turnover is low. People don't give up their Club 33 memberships easily!

Here's the thing: the waitlist isn't really a "first come, first served" situation anymore. Disney picks and chooses who they want to invite based on a variety of factors. Having connections helps. A lot!

Step 3: The Interview Process

If Disney contacts you, congratulations! But you're not in yet. There's still an approval process that includes background checks, an interview, and (yep) social media snooping!

Disney wants to ensure you'll behave yourself and mesh well with other members. They'll ask:

Why do you want to join?
What other exclusive clubs do you belong to?
Questions about your career and business
How often you visit Disneyland
What you hope to get out of membership

The Disneyland interview is reportedly more intense than Walt Disney World's. Makes sense—this is the original, most prestigious location, and they can afford to be picky.

Step 4: Pay Up

If you're approved, it's time to open your wallet. Way open!

The Cost

Let's get real about what Club 33 at Disneyland costs. Spoiler alert: it's expensive. Like, really expensive.

Membership Tiers

As of 2025, Disneyland only offers Platinum membership to new members. They used to have Silver and Gold tiers, but those have been phased out (though some grandfathered members still have them).

Platinum Membership Costs:

Initiation fee: $25,000 - $50,000 (some sources report up to $80,000 as of 2025)
Annual dues: $10,000 - $30,000 per year (recent reports suggest around $22,000)

Bottom line? Expect to pay somewhere between $35,000 to $100,000 in your first year, depending on current pricing and your specific membership tier.

Is It Worth It?

That depends entirely on your financial situation and how much you love Disney.

Former members Scott and Diana Anderson reportedly spent close to $125,000 annually on their Disney trips during their membership, visiting Club 33 about 80 times per year. For them, the value was there—until they got kicked out and spent $400,000 trying to sue their way back in (they lost).

For wealthy Disney enthusiasts who visit multiple times per month, business owners who can write it off as client entertainment, and celebrities who want a reprieve from crowds, the value proposition makes sense.

For the average Disney fan? Probably not realistic. But hey, that's what makes it exclusive.

Membership Perks

Okay, so you're dropping $30,000-$50,000+ annually. What do you get besides bragging rights and access to the club?

Top-Tier Annual Passes

Members receive no-blackout-date Magic Key passes (Disneyland's annual pass) for themselves, their spouse, and any children under 18. Members also get the top-level Walt Disney World annual pass, good at all four Florida parks.

Regular folks pay $1,500+ for these passes, so we're talking $4,500-$6,000+ in value just from annual passes for a family of three.

50 Guest Passes

You get 50 one-day park hopper tickets annually to share with friends and family. These tickets work at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.

Your guests don't have to dine at the club—they can just use the tickets to enjoy the parks. That's around $10,000 in value (single-day park hoppers run $150-$200+).

5 VIP Tours Per Year

Each membership includes 5 VIP tours annually at the Disneyland Resort. If you've seen those cast members in plaid vests walking groups around with zero wait times, that's what we're talking about.

These tours cost $500-$800 per hour with a 7-hour minimum, so you're looking at $3,500-$5,600 per tour, or up to $28,000 in value annually. Yeah, it's ridiculous.

Lightning Lane Access

Members get complimentary access to Lightning Lanes (formerly FastPass+) without paying the daily fees regular guests shell out. That saves you $20-$30+ per person per day.

Club Access & Dining

Obviously, you get unlimited access to:

Club 33 Le Grand Salon (with reservations for the prix fixe dining)
Le Salon Nouveau lounge (walk-in, no reservation needed)
1901 Lounge at Disney California Adventure (Platinum members only)

You can make as many reservations as you want throughout the year. Non-members can't access these areas at all.

Additional Perks

Exclusive Club 33 merchandise you can't buy anywhere else
Special events throughout the year (holiday parties, New Year's Eve galas, Candlelight Processional reserved seating, attraction previews)
Private character meet-and-greets inside the club
Club 33 concierge team to help plan your visits
Discounts at other exclusive experiences like 21 Royal (another ultra-exclusive Disneyland dining experience)
Complimentary valet parking at Disneyland hotels
Hotel upgrades when staying at Disneyland Resort hotels
Early park news and sneak peeks

Breaking Down the Value

Let's do some quick math on the actual monetary value:

Magic Keys for 3 family members: ~$4,500
50 guest park hoppers: ~$10,000
5 VIP tours: ~$20,000+
Lightning Lane access (visiting 20 days/year): ~$600+
Total tangible value: ~$35,000+

So if you're paying $32,000 annually (the $10,000 dues + $22,000 reported in some sources), you're basically breaking even on tangible benefits alone—not including the club access, exclusive events, and prestige factor.

For people who'd use all these benefits, the math actually works. For casual visitors, not so much.

The Rules

If you're lucky enough to visit as someone's guest, you absolutely need to follow the rules! Breaking them can get your host suspended or even expelled from the club.

Dress Code

Club 33 takes its dress code seriously, and it varies by meal service.

Lunch (before 4:30 PM):

Business casual attire
No flip-flops
Follow standard Disneyland dress code (no offensive slogans, appropriate coverage)

Dinner (after 4:30 PM) in Le Grand Salon:

Business casual or higher required
Collared shirts, blouses, sweaters, dresses
Slacks or dark denim (no shorts)
Closed-toe shoes (open-toe heels are fine for women)

Never allowed in Club 33 dining rooms:

Shorts
T-shirts (unless dressed up with a blazer)
Tank tops or crop tops
Ripped, distressed, or defaced denim
Athletic/workout wear
Yoga pants or leggings as pants
Flip-flops or beach sandals
Hats (including Mickey ears!)
Spirit jerseys
Political messaging or offensive slogans

Kids ages 10+ must follow the adult dress code.

Le Salon Nouveau (the lounge):
The lounge has a slightly more relaxed "smart casual" dress code. You can wear fitted t-shirts, walking shorts, and plain black leggings (with appropriate coverage). But don't show up in gym clothes or super casual attire.

Photography Rules

You can take photos in most areas, but there are strict limitations:

Absolutely NO photos in bathrooms (people have been suspended for this)
No photos or videos that include other guests not in your party
No photos of other members without permission
No videos at all (not even boomerangs or quick clips)
Ask your member host about social media posting before you share anything

If you see a celebrity, leave them alone. No autographs, no photos, no bothering them. That's part of what makes Club 33 appealing to famous folks—they can enjoy Disney without being harassed.

General Etiquette

Arrive early (15 minutes before your reservation)
Be respectful and conduct yourself with dignity
Don't wander around aimlessly—sit at your table or designated area
No loud or disruptive behavior
Don't resell Club 33 merchandise (it's grounds for expulsion)
Tip your server well (18-20%+ is expected)
Be responsible for your entire party's behavior if you're a member

Code of Conduct Violations That Get People Kicked Out

Members have been suspended or expelled for:

Public intoxication in the parks
Bathroom photography
Reselling Club 33 merchandise
Auctioning off reservations without permission
Using a "raised voice" with staff
Harassing other members or guests
Breaking NDA terms
General bad behavior that reflects poorly on the club

The infamous Anderson lawsuit showed just how seriously Disney takes these rules. Scott and Diana Anderson spent $400,000 trying to fight their expulsion after Scott was allegedly found intoxicated outside California Adventure. The jury sided with Disney after deliberating for just 45 minutes!

Don't mess around with the rules. Your behavior affects your host's membership status!

Celebrity Members

Club 33 doesn't release an official member list (NDA and all that), but celebrity sightings and social media leaks have given us some names!

Rumored celebrity members include:

Tom Hanks (so important they reportedly close the club for his Thanksgiving dinner)
Neil Patrick Harris
Katy Perry (got in trouble for trying to auction access for charity without permission)
John Stamos
Josh Gad
Ginnifer Goodwin
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
Gwen Stefani
Mariah Carey
Tiger Woods
Dick Van Dyke
Rebel Wilson (suspended for 30 days for posting bathroom photos)
Christina Aguilera
Elton John
Jimmy Kimmel
Jason Bateman

Past members included Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson.

Corporate members include companies like:

Coca-Cola
Chevrolet
JP Morgan Chase
AT&T
Chevron
Dole Food Company

Many Southern California companies and major Disney partners hold corporate memberships to entertain clients and reward employees. Current estimates suggest around 600 individual members at Disneyland's Club 33.

How to Visit Without a Membership

You don't have $50,000 lying around, and you're not willing to wait 10 years. So how can you experience Club 33 without becoming a member?

Know a Member

This is your best bet. Befriend a Club 33 member who'll make you a reservation or invite you as their guest.

For Le Grand Salon (main dining room), members can make reservations for guests without accompanying them. You'd just show up at your reserved time, and they'll let you in.

For Le Salon Nouveau (the lounge), the member must be present with you.

Start networking! Look for connections through work, family, friends, or social circles. Corporate connections are especially valuable—many companies have memberships their employees can request access to for special occasions.

Corporate Connections

If you work for a large company that partners with Disney or has significant California business interests, check if they have a corporate membership. Some employees can request access for client entertainment or special celebrations.

Ask your HR department or executive team if this is an option!

Charity Auctions

Very occasionally, members auction off Club 33 reservations for charitable causes. These don't happen often, and technically, members aren't supposed to do this without Disney's permission. When they do pop up, expect bidding to get steep—potentially tens of thousands of dollars!

Keep an eye on major charity auction sites and events, though opportunities are rare.

Adventures by Disney

Some Adventures by Disney tours—specifically the Los Angeles/Southern California trips—have included breakfast or lunch at Club 33, though it's not guaranteed or advertised. This is hit-or-miss, but it's a legitimate way some regular folks have gotten inside.

Disney Sweepstakes

Disney has occasionally offered Club 33 experiences through sweepstakes and contests. These are extremely rare, but they do happen. Stay tuned to Disney's official channels and promotions!

The 1901 Lounge: Club 33's Sister Location

Platinum-level Club 33 members at Disneyland also get access to the 1901 Lounge, located inside the Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure!

Named after the year Walt Disney was born, 1901 has a distinctly different vibe from Club 33. While Club 33 focuses on New Orleans elegance, 1901 celebrates Walt's early career with a 1930s aesthetic!

What You'll Find at 1901:

Vintage photos of Walt and his early work
Memorabilia from Walt's career
A replica of Walt's plane hanging from the ceiling
Comfy couches and intimate seating areas
A stunning bar with seats labeled "Walt" and "Lillian"
A grand piano
The same great food and cocktail options as Carthay Circle Lounge

The vibe is more laid-back than Club 33, but still luxurious. It's smaller and feels more intimate—almost like you're hanging out in Walt's living room (if Walt's living room was inside a theme park and served craft cocktails).

You need to be with a Platinum member to access 1901—it's not open to Gold or Silver members (though those tiers are mostly phased out now anyway).

Insider Tips for Your First Visit

Scored an invite? Here's how to make the most of it:

Before You Go:

Dress appropriately for the time of day and dress code
Arrive 15 minutes early so you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink and explore
Bring extra cash or a credit card for merchandise (pins, hats, souvenirs, ornaments)
Ask your host about their social media preferences before posting anything
Review the photography rules

During Your Visit:

Sign the guest book in the entrance hall
Talk to the cast members—they're fountains of knowledge about Club 33 history and hidden details
Try the signature cocktails (Hurricane, Clover Club, Club 33 Coffee)
Look for hidden Mickey's and Disney Easter eggs throughout
Ask about Alfred the turkey vulture and other memorabilia
Visit the balcony if it's open (especially during Fantasmic, parades, or fireworks)
Use the fancy mouthwash in the bathrooms (but don't photograph them!)
Take your time—meals typically last 3+ hours, and that's expected
Request napkins, drink stirrers, or other small keepsakes if you want a memory
If you're celebrating something special, tell your server—they'll often provide a gift
Explore the hallway and check out the themed booths

What to Order:

Walt's blue cheese crusted filet mignon (if available)
Pan-roasted scallops
Any seasonal fish preparation
Club 33 Burger with Brie (in the lounge)
Beer-battered onion rings (in the lounge)
Warm pretzels with fondue (in the lounge)
Seasonal cocktails from the extensive drink menu

Respect the Space:

Don't approach celebrities if you see them
Stay seated or in your designated area unless exploring with permission
Be mindful of other guests' privacy
Remember that your behavior reflects on your host's membership
Don't overshare on social media without checking with your host first

The 2014 Renovation: What Changed

In 2013, Disney announced a major expansion and renovation of Club 33 that nearly doubled its size! The club closed and underwent extensive work before reopening in July 2014.

What Changed:

The entrance moved from 33 Royal Street to the Court of Angels
The Court of Angels (previously a public space) became private Club 33 property
Le Salon Nouveau jazz lounge was added
The club expanded into space above the French Market Restaurant
New entrance vestibule and reception area
Upgraded restrooms
New Art Nouveau design elements throughout
Chef Andrew Sutton took over the culinary program
The menu shifted from French-Cajun to California-inspired seasonal cuisine

What Was Lost:

The original lobby and Trophy Room
Public access to the Court of Angels
The French Lift (converted into a booth)
Some original Walt-era design elements
Parts of the club's historical character

What People Think:
The renovation is controversial among longtime members and Disney historians. Some love the upgraded finishes, modern amenities, and expanded space. Others feel Disney gutted the club's historical soul in favor of generic luxury.

The common complaint? The old Club 33 felt like Walt's club. The new Club 33 feels like a fancy country club that happens to be inside Disneyland. The history is still there, but it's been diluted.

That said, the food is better, the facilities are nicer, and the lounge is gorgeous! It's just...different.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Club 33 membership cost at Disneyland?

Expect an initiation fee of $25,000-$80,000 (depending on timing and tier) and annual dues of $10,000-$30,000. Recent reports suggest around $80,000 initiation and $22,000 annually as of 2025!

How long is the Club 33 waiting list at Disneyland?

Around 5-10 years on average, though it varies. Some VIPs get in faster with connections and referrals. Disney has become more aggressive about recruiting new members recently, so the timeline might be shortening.

Can I wear jeans to Club 33?

Yes, but they must be dark, non-distressed denim without rips or fraying. Pair them with a nice top and closed-toe shoes for dinner service. Lunch service is more relaxed.

What's included with Disneyland Club 33 membership?

Top-tier Magic Key passes for your immediate family, 50 guest park hopper tickets per year, 5 VIP tours annually, Lightning Lane access, exclusive merchandise, access to Club 33 and 1901 Lounge, hotel upgrades, valet parking, and special events.

Can I visit Club 33 without a membership?

Yes, but you need a member to make a reservation or invite you as their guest. Corporate memberships, charity auctions, and rare Disney contests also provide access!

What's the difference between Club 33 and 1901 Lounge?

1901 Lounge is located in Disney California Adventure and only accessible to Platinum-tier Club 33 members. It has a 1930s vibe celebrating Walt's early career. Club 33 is the main dining location in Disneyland with New Orleans-inspired design.

Do Club 33 members have to pay for food?

Yes! Membership gives you access to the club and lounges, but you still pay for your meals, drinks, and merchandise. The prix fixe menu runs $120-$150 per person.

Has anyone been kicked out of Club 33?

Yes. The most famous case involved Scott and Diana Anderson, who were expelled after Scott was allegedly found intoxicated in the park. They sued Disney for $400,000 trying to get reinstated but lost. Other members have been suspended for bathroom photography and rule violations.

Where exactly is Club 33 located in Disneyland?

In New Orleans Square, above Pirates of the Caribbean and next to the Blue Bayou Restaurant. The entrance is through the Court of Angels courtyard (formerly at 33 Royal Street).

How long does dinner at Club 33 take?

Expect 3+ hours for the full prix fixe experience. You're encouraged to take your time, enjoy the atmosphere, and explore the club. It's not a rush-you-out kind of place.

Can I take photos inside Club 33?

Yes, but with restrictions. No photos in bathrooms, no videos, no photos that include other guests not in your party, and no photos of celebrities. Ask your host about social media posting before sharing anything publicly.

Is Club 33 at Disneyland better than Walt Disney World?

Disneyland's Club 33 is the original and most prestigious location with the most history. Walt Disney World has four separate club locations (one in each park), but they're more casual lounges than formal dining rooms. Most Disney fans consider Disneyland's Club 33 to be the crown jewel!

Is Club 33 at Disneyland Worth It?

Club 33 at Disneyland represents something truly unique—a genuine piece of Walt Disney's legacy that's evolved into an ultra-exclusive experience combining history, luxury, and Disney magic.

For most Disney fans, Club 33 will remain a mystery glimpsed only through that famous door in New Orleans Square. And honestly? That's part of what makes it so special. The exclusivity, the history, the stories shared by the lucky few who've experienced it—all of that contributes to a mystique that money can't quite buy (though it certainly helps).

If you're considering membership, ask yourself:

Do you visit Disneyland multiple times per month?
Can you comfortably afford $30,000-$50,000+ annually without financial strain?
Would you actually use the VIP tours, guest passes, and other perks?
Do you appreciate fine dining and exclusive experiences?
Is being part of Disney history important to you?

If you answered yes to most of those, the value proposition might make sense. If not, save your money and enjoy Disneyland the way millions of other guests do—with a Dole Whip in hand and a FastPass for Thunder Mountain!

But if you ever get the chance to visit as someone's guest, whether through a friend, family member, or corporate connection, take it. Savor every moment! Take in the details Walt's Imagineers poured into the space. Appreciate the history. Enjoy the food and drinks. And maybe, just maybe, you'll understand why people are willing to spend small fortunes for the privilege of belonging to Disney's most exclusive club!

After all, Walt Disney himself said, "It's kind of fun to do the impossible." Club 33 membership might seem impossible for most of us, but that's never stopped Disney fans from dreaming, has it?

Who knows? Maybe one day you'll be the one tapping your membership card on that iconic "33" emblem, walking through the Court of Angels, and stepping into a world that Walt Disney himself designed! Until then, keep dreaming, keep visiting the parks, and keep making those Disney memories—whether they happen inside Club 33 or out in New Orleans Square with the rest of us magical folks!

Club 33 at Disneyland: Your Complete Insider's Guide to the Original Exclusive Club