Club 33 at Disneyland

Okay, for all you true blue Disney fans, Club 33 warrants no explanation or description. But for those of you who are less than true to our great American heritage of Disneyland, let me explain...

Club 33 was imagined by, of course, Walt Disney himself. He wanted a place where special VIPs could go when they visited Disneyland, a quiet, intimate setting away from all the hustle and bustle. This place soon became Club 33, although Disney died before ever getting to visit it (I believe he died 6 months before it opened).

Now, the place is known as a very exclusive place. Mention to a Disney worker that you are going there (I did this in passing to a couple of chatty ride operators) and you will be met with immediate awe. Membership costs are a great mystery, but from what I hear it is something to the tune of thousands a year ($20,000 and up). It is frequented by celebrities and politicians. It is also the ONLY place in Disneyland where you can legitimately drink alcohol...and dinner there ain't cheap!!!

The "secret door" is located next to the Blue Bayou by the exit of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.
It is recognizable only by a small plaque that reads "Club 33" ... there is a button. You push the button and if your name is on the list, you get in. If it isn't on the list, you don't get in. And yes, people have gotten violent trying to get in.

I have known about this place since my teens, and I always vowed someday I would go there. Thanks to a dear friend (and after some sincere effort on his part) this goal came true on my 27th birthday. After a wonderful day at Disneyland (actually the day started off rocky with a visit to Urgent Care but alas that is a story for another day), I changed into nicer clothes and headed over, bringing along my sister as my guest. (Notice that her hair is more perfectly coiffed since she didn't spend the day at Disneyland with me...*wink*) Pushing that button and having my name on the list was a THRILL!!! I got the whole thing on video...if you want to see that video ask me and I will send you the link (I didn't make the video public).

Club 33 did not disappoint from the very beginning. Disney memorabilia abounds, the wait staff was incredible ("Would you like a napkin to match the color of your skirt?"), every detail spoke of Club 33. The filet minon was incredible, the desserts delectable.

Afterward, we sat on the balcony and watched the Fantasmic fireworks from above New Orleans square. The only thing that ruined THAT moment was the snobby man who turned to me and said, "I like to stand up here and look down at all the regular people eating regular food." Seriously...that's what he said.

A waitress gave us a tour of the place, I was even allowed to make a phone call on the famous phone from "The Happiest Millionaire" movie which is a working phone.
Also, we got to see a painted portrait of Disney sitting at what would have been his personal table at Club 33, which was OUR TABLE.
To end an incredible evening, we bought Mickey ears, complete with the Club 33 logo. An amazing experience. Unforgettable and genius, just like everything Disney created is.