Behind The Gray-Green Door: The Mystique Of Disney's Club 33
Tucked away in Disneyland's New Orleans sector lies a door that is as unassuming as it is exclusive. Marked only by the number 33 and a brass speaker box, this entrance serves as the gateway to Club 33, Disney's most secretive and elite club.
With a hefty initiation fee and an annual membership cost, Club 33 remains an enigma to the public, shrouded in rumors and speculation. This article explores the origins, controversies, and allure of this hidden gem within "the happiest place on Earth."
Nestled in Disneyland's Adventureland, an ordinary-looking door belies the extraordinary world of Club 33, a place of exclusivity and luxury far removed from the park's bustling crowds.
Since its inception in 1967, Club 33 has fascinated Disney enthusiasts and the general public alike, with its membership fees reaching $50,000 for initiation and $15,000 annually. Despite its cost, gaining entry into this select group is no easy feat, with membership numbers tightly controlled.
The origins of Club 33 trace back to Walt Disney's inspiration from the 1964 New York World's Fair, where executive lounges provided a space for corporate sponsors and dignitaries to relax.
Disney envisioned a similar retreat within Disneyland, where alcohol could be served in a fine dining setting, a first for the park. This vision was realized shortly after Disney's death, cementing his legacy through Club 33's continued operation.
The club's name, while subject to various theories, most likely honors the original corporate sponsors of Disneyland or the club's address. Over the years, Club 33 has evolved from a space for sponsors and dignitaries to include celebrities among its members, drawn by the privacy and exclusivity it offers.
However, Club 33's serene facade has not been without its controversies. Recent lawsuits have shed light on the club's strict rules and the consequences of their violation, revealing tensions between management and members.
From public drunkenness to the recording of live performances, the reasons for membership termination have sparked debate and speculation about the club's inner workings.
Despite these issues, Club 33 remains a bastion of privacy and exclusivity in the age of social media. Its allure lies not just in its luxurious offerings but in the promise of an escape from the public eye, a rare commodity for its high-profile members.
As Club 33 continues to captivate imaginations, it stands as a testament to Walt Disney's vision of a space where magic and mystery coalesce, hidden in plain sight within the bustling world of Disneyland.
