Club 33, nestled in Disneyland’s New Orleans Square, is Disney’s most exclusive club. Opened in 1967, it’s a hidden gem where members enjoy unique experiences. Originally planned by Walt Disney, this members-only spot blends history with luxury. It’s not just a place; it’s a symbol of Disney’s magic and exclusivity. Inside, members dine in style, surrounded by Disney history. While Club 33’s allure is strong, joining is a dream for many Disney fans. This club, steeped in Disney lore, offers an unmatched experience, making it a coveted destination for those who cherish the Disney legacy.
What is Club 33?
Walt Disney, the man behind the magic, had a unique vision for Club 33. His idea was to create a special place in Disneyland where he could entertain guests and business partners. This vision came to life in the heart of New Orleans Square.
Early Days of Club 33
Club 33 opened its doors in 1967, just a few months after Walt Disney’s passing. It was originally part of a larger plan for a private area in Disneyland called “Royal Street.” The club was named after its address, 33 Royal Street, making it a hidden gem in the park.
Design and Inspiration:
The design of Club 33 reflects a blend of New Orleans charm and Disney’s imaginative flair. Walt Disney and his wife, Lillian, personally chose many of the club’s antique furnishings during their travels. The club’s elegant decor and attention to detail make it a unique spot inside Disneyland.
An Exclusive Membership:
Becoming a member of Club 33 is a coveted goal for many Disney fans. The club’s exclusivity is not just about its location but also the unique experiences it offers. Members enjoy special access to parts of the park, fine dining, and events that are not available to regular park visitors.
Club 33 Today:
Today, Club 33 remains an exclusive part of the Disney experience. It’s a symbol of luxury and exclusivity within the bustling activity of Disneyland. The club has undergone changes over the years, but it still holds the charm and elegance that Walt Disney envisioned. For those lucky enough to be members, Club 33 offers a unique way to experience the magic of Disney.
Benefits of Being a Club 33 Member
1. Access to Club 33 Lounges:
Members can unwind in lounges that are quiet and beautifully decorated. These areas are a peaceful break from the busy theme parks. Each lounge has its own style, reflecting the unique themes of different Disney parks.
2. Special Events:
Members get special invites to events not open to the public. This includes first looks at new rides and special parties for holidays. These events are a chance to experience Disney in a unique and exclusive way.
3. Premier Dining:
The dining at Club 33 is top-notch, with menus made by famous chefs. Members can enjoy a mix of traditional and modern dishes. These dining experiences are exclusive to Club 33 and are known for their quality and creativity.
4. Priority Reservations:
Members get first choice when booking Disney restaurants, hotels, and experiences. This means less waiting and better options for their visits. It’s a big advantage, especially during busy times at the parks.
5. Unique Merchandise:
Club 33 offers special items that only members can buy. This includes clothes and collectibles that you can’t find anywhere else. These items are a way for members to show their connection to this exclusive club.
6. Behind-the-Scenes Tours:
Members can go on special tours that show how Disney parks work. These tours give a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Disney. It’s a chance to learn about the parks in a way that most visitors don’t get to see.
7. Admission to Clubs Worldwide:
A Club 33 membership isn’t just for one park. Members can go to Club 33 locations all over the world. Each club has its own special feel, giving members a variety of exclusive experiences.
These benefits make Club 33 a unique and sought-after membership for Disney fans, offering a blend of luxury, exclusivity, and a deep connection to the Disney experience.
The Membership Process to Get Into Club 33
Becoming a member of Club 33 is not easy. It’s a special club at Disney with a lot of rules for joining. The process is kept quiet and is more than just paying money. It’s about being the right fit for this very special group. Here’s how it works:
Application:
The application process for Club 33 is discreet and selective, often initiated through a referral from an existing member. This underscores the club’s exclusivity and ensures that potential members align with the club’s prestigious nature and values.
Interview Process:
After the initial application, potential members may go through an interview process. This step further assesses their fit for the club and provides an opportunity for applicants to understand the club’s culture and expectations.
Waiting List:
The waiting list for Club 33 is notoriously long, reflecting the high demand for this exclusive membership. The wait can span several years, indicating the desirability and prestige associated with being part of this elite group.
Membership Fees:
The initiation fee and annual dues for Club 33 are substantial, serving as a testament to the club’s prestige and the high level of services and experiences it offers. These fees contribute to maintaining the club’s exclusivity and ensuring the highest quality of offerings for its members.
Final Approval:
The final step in the membership process involves approval from the Club 33 management team. This approval is based on various factors, including the applicant’s alignment with the club’s standards and ethos.
Membership Renewal:
Once accepted, members are subject to periodic renewal processes, ensuring that they continue to meet the club’s standards and contribute positively to the Club 33 community.
This rigorous and thorough process ensures that Club 33 maintains its status as one of the most exclusive and sought-after memberships in the world of Disney.
Tips for Aspiring Members:
- Networking: Engaging with current members and participating in Disney-related events can increase your chances of getting a referral.
- Patience: The waiting period can be extensive, so patience and persistence are essential for those aspiring to join.
- Financial Planning: Prospective members should plan for the financial commitment, considering both the initial fee and ongoing costs of maintaining the membership.
Membership in Club 33 is more than just access to exclusive areas; it’s an invitation to be part of a storied tradition within the Disney community. For true Disney fans, it represents a pinnacle of their fandom, offering experiences and memories that are both unique and deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Disney’s history. The allure of Club 33 lies in its blend of exclusivity, luxury, and a deep connection to the legacy of Walt Disney and his dream.
The Locations of Club 33
The first Club 33 is hidden in Disneyland’s New Orleans Square. Opened in 1967, it’s near the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. This location is iconic, known for its unique décor and historical significance. It’s where Walt Disney’s vision for an exclusive, members-only area in Disneyland first came to life. The club’s entrance is discreet, marked only by the address “33 Royal Street,” adding to its mystique.
Club 33 at Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando also boasts its version of Club 33. Each of the four theme parks houses a unique Club 33 location, offering diverse experiences. These clubs maintain the exclusivity and elegance of the original but with a distinct Floridian flair. Members at Walt Disney World Resort can enjoy different themes and offerings at each park, from the Magic Kingdom to Epcot.
International Club 33 Locations
Club 33 has expanded globally, with locations at Tokyo Disneyland and other international Disney parks. Each of these clubs reflects the culture and style of its host country while maintaining the high standards of exclusivity and luxury that Club 33 is known for. These international locations offer members a global Club 33 experience, showcasing how Disney’s magic transcends borders.
In each Club 33 location, members are treated to a unique blend of Disney’s storytelling and world-class service. Whether it’s the original club at Disneyland, the diverse options at Walt Disney World, or the international locations, Club 33 offers an exclusive and luxurious experience that’s deeply rooted in the magic of Disney.
How To Experience Club 33 Without Membership
Experiencing the allure of Club 33 without being a member can be challenging due to its exclusivity. However, there are a few ways to get a glimpse of this exclusive club:
Guest of a Member:
The most straightforward way to experience Club 33 is as a guest of a member. Members are allowed to bring guests, offering a rare opportunity to see the club from the inside.
Special Tours:
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: While these tours may not always include Club 33, they offer insights into the exclusive areas of Disneyland and Disney World Resorts.
- Disneyland VIP Tours: Occasionally, these tours might include a peek at the entrance or lobby of Club 33, though access inside the club is not guaranteed.
Events and Promotions:
- Special Events: Sometimes, Disney holds events or promotions that offer limited access to Club 33. These are rare and often require a separate ticket or invitation.
- Corporate Events: Companies that hold events at Disneyland or Disney World Resorts sometimes gain access to Club 33. Attending such an event could provide an opportunity to experience the club.
Online and Virtual Experiences:
- Virtual Tours: Online resources and Disney fan blogs sometimes offer virtual tours or photo galleries of Club 33, giving a digital glimpse into the club.
- Disney Parks Blog: The official Disney Parks Blog occasionally shares stories and insights about Club 33, offering a virtual peek into its history and elegance.
While experiencing Club 33 without a membership is difficult, these alternatives can provide a taste of its exclusivity and charm. For many Disney fans, even a brief encounter or glimpse of Club 33 is a memorable experience, adding to the magic and mystery of the Disney parks.
Conclusion
Club 33, a hidden gem within Disneyland and Walt Disney World, represents the pinnacle of exclusivity in Disney parks. This members-only club, originally envisioned by Walt Disney, offers a unique experience, blending Disney history with luxury. From its original location at 33 Royal Street in New Orleans Square to its expansion to other Disney parks, Club 33 has become a symbol of Disney’s most exclusive experiences. Membership in Club 33 is highly sought after, offering benefits like dining at gourmet restaurants, access to special lounges, and the chance to be part of Disney’s rich legacy. While getting into Club 33 requires patience and a significant investment, the experience of being a member is unparalleled. For Disney fans, even the idea of visiting Club 33, whether dining inside its luxurious walls or just learning about its history, is a dream come true. Club 33 remains a testament to the unique magic and allure that only Disney can offer.