In New Orleans Square in Disneyland, near the Blue Bayou Restaurant, there is a door marked "33." This is the entrance to Club 33, a little-known members-only establishment that is also the only place in Disneyland able to serve alcohol.
Club 33 was designed by Walt Disney himself to entertain Corporate sponsors and other VIPs, and it was included in the original plans for New Orleans Square. After Disney died, the club was opened up to members who could pay the fee, which ranged from $7,500 to $20,000 US Dollars (USD), with an annual fee of $3,025 to $5,825 USD, depending on type of membership. There is also an initiation fee of $10,000 USD, and a waiting list that can be over five years long.
Members of the establishment also receive free admission; to Disneyland, along with a complimentary guest — although, compared to the member fees, they probably wouldn't notice the price of admission. They are also granted complimentary parking. Anyone with the money who is willing to wait through the long waiting period is able to become a member. At any given moment, there are always fewer than 500 members.
When guests enter Club 33, they immediately see an antique-looking glass elevator that is a replica of a Parisian elevator Disney saw and tried to buy while on vacation. When discovering that the original elevator was not for sale, Disney sent engineers to take measurements in order to build an exact replica. Other furnishings include antiques chosen by Lillian Disney and furniture featured in the studio's films.
Gourmet food and drink is provided for members. A staff of around 70 is available to make sure all guests are served and happy, even remembering individual members' favorite dishes and making sure they are available when the members visit. Guests and members do have to pay for their food and drink, although the prices are reported not to be high and are definitely eclipsed by the exorbitant prices of belonging to the club.
The origin of the name "Club 33" has sparked many different rumors over the years. One version of its origin is that it was named for the 33 original investors in Disneyland. Another has Walt Disney choosing the name simply because he liked the way that "33" appeared — as two sets of Mickey ears when turned sideways — or because Disney's favorite number was 3, again, due to the Mickey ears similarity. Disneyland's official explanation is that the address is 33 Royal Street in New Orleans Square, causing it to be called "33."
