How to Get into Disney’s Club 33, With or Without a Membership

Club 33 is one of the most exclusive and coveted experiences at Disney parks worldwide. Originally envisioned by Walt Disney himself in the 1960s as a private club where he could entertain VIPs, Club 33 has evolved into an elite membership program with astronomical fees and years-long waitlists.

Getting access to Club 33 is no easy feat, but not entirely impossible for the non-member. Here are some creative ways you may be able to get into Disney’s most exclusive club:

What is Club 33?

Club 33 is a private club located in exclusive, out-of-the-way locations in Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and other Disney parks worldwide.

The original Club 33 opened in 1967 above New Orleans Square in Disneyland. Walt Disney wanted a place where he could entertain corporate sponsors and VIPs away from the crowds. He envisioned Club 33 as an elegant retreat with fine dining and drinks, the only place that served alcohol at Disneyland at the time.

Tragically, Walt passed away a few months before Club 33 officially opened. However, Disney still saw his vision through. Over the decades, Club 33 has hosted presidents, celebrities, dignitaries, and other elite guests.

Membership was originally limited to 500 members, but it has since expanded to accommodate demand. Even so, Club 33 maintains its exclusivity with high membership fees and strict rules. Membership is by invitation only after being waitlisted for years[4].

Club 33 Locations

In addition to the original New Orleans Square Club 33, other locations exist across Disney parks[5]:

Disneyland – New Orleans Square above Cafe Orleans
Disney California Adventure – 1901 Lounge near Carthay Circle
Walt Disney World – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom
Tokyo Disneyland – World Bazaar
Shanghai Disneyland – Mickey Avenue

Each Club 33 location has an elegant, upscale theme with fine dining and bars serving exclusive menus not available to regular park guests. They offer members a VIP retreat with luxury amenities and perks[2].

Club 33 Membership Cost

Club 33 membership fees are astronomical. At Disneyland, the reported cost is $25,000 upfront and $10,000 in annual dues[1].

At Walt Disney World, the upfront cost is even higher at $33,000 initiation and $15,000 yearly dues. Plus, you have to be invited by Disney to join after being on a waiting list for years.

Clearly, Club 33 is intended only for the elite of the elite. But for the average guest without tens of thousands to drop upfront, visiting still isn’t impossible.

How to Visit Club 33 Without Membership

If you don’t have the cash or connections to snag the exclusive membership, try these creative ways to get into Club 33:

Befriend a Current Member

This is the most straightforward path. If you know someone who is already a member, they can bring you as their guest or make a reservation on your behalf. Coordinate with them well in advance since availability is limited.

You’ll still pay for your meal and drinks, but it beats the astronomical membership fees. Act fast if a member offers you the chance to visit – it’s a rare opportunity!

Work for a Company with a Corporate Membership

Some large corporations hold business memberships to Club 33 which they use to entertain clients or reward executives.

Check if your company has access to a corporate membership. You may be able to visit if you hold a certain position or rank. Rules vary by company, so consult with your HR department.

Corporate memberships often limit the number of guests, so plan accordingly with your HR contact if you can take advantage of this perk.

Bid on a Charity Auction

Sometimes Disney or third-party charities auction off Club 33 dining experiences as a fundraiser.

Keep an eye out for charity auctions that offer Club 33 reservations as prizes. If you win, you’ll get the chance to visit without buying a membership.

Book a Special Event Through Disney

Disney may offer Club 33 access as part of special events like D23 conventions, private tours, or Adventures by Disney trips.

Availability is sporadic and not guaranteed, but it can’t hurt to keep watch for Club 33 events on Disney fan sites and social media. Act fast when they become available!

Get Creative!

Part of the allure of Club 33 is its exclusivity and prestige. Members relish the bragging rights of accessing such an elite experience.

But as Walt himself envisioned it, Club 33 is simply a respite from the parks for fine dining and drinks. At the end of the day, it’s still about enjoying quality time with friends and family.

If you focus less on the status and more on the experience itself, getting into Club 33 seems far less urgent. There are plenty of other ways to have a memorable, upscale meal at Disney without the astronomical price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions About Club 33

Here are answers to some common questions about the elusive Club 33:

How much does it cost to be a Club 33 member?

At Disneyland, the reported upfront cost is $25,000 with $10,000 annual dues. At Walt Disney World, it’s $33,000 upfront and $15,000 annually.

What are the perks of being a Club 33 member?

Perks include access to the exclusive lounges, fine dining, bars, member events, valet parking, and VIP treatment at the parks.

How do you become a member of Club 33 at Disney World?

You must be invited by Disney after being on a waiting list for years. There is no way to outright buy a membership.

Is Club 33 membership worth it?

With the astronomical fees, years-long waitlist, and limited availability, being a member is more about status and exclusivity than value for money.

Does Disney sell Club 33 memberships?

No, there is no way to directly buy a membership. You must be invited by Disney after being waitlisted for years.

Can you visit Club 33 without a membership?

Yes, if you befriend a current member, work for a company with a corporate membership, win a charity auction, or book special Disney events that provide access.

The Allure of Exclusivity

For many Disney fans, part of the allure of Club 33 is its sheer exclusivity. As one of the most elite and expensive memberships at Disney, it confers serious bragging rights.

But while Club 33’s prestige and luxury are undeniable, its real value comes from making magical memories. At the end of the day, it’s just another place to enjoy good food and company in the parks.

Focus less on the status and more on the experience. If your happiness depends on joining the upper echelon of Disney fans, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment.

There are plenty of other ways to have a memorable, upscale visit without the astronomical membership fees. Do what makes you happy, whether it’s getting dressed up for a signature dining experience or sharing churros on a bench in front of the castle.

The magic is waiting if you know where to look for it.