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Club 33. The very name of it conjures up images of
exclusivity, celebrity, royalty, and mystery. Located in the
heart of New Orleans Square (Disneyland California) stands the
iconic blue door. Beyond that blue door, a unique experience
awaits members and their guests. Some would argue that the Club
in and of itself is the ultimate “E”-ticket attraction at the
Park. The old adage, “once is never enough” surely fits when
describing what its like to experience such a special place.
That’s because each subsequent experience at the Club seems
 to
be as just exciting as the first. Not many places can lay claim
to that notion. So what is it about this place that makes it so
desirable? For starters, the Club is accessible only to members
and/or their guests. The Club is off limits to the general
public. Because of this, the element of “mystery” is heightened
which leads to arouse people’s sense of curiosity. There however
are a multitude of other reasons why so many people are in awe
of this special place. And the reasons are certainly worth
examining. So let’s take a peek and see what lies beyond the
iconic blue door. We will look at the club’s history and
describe what its like to spend a portion of your day at the
Club. So without further a-do, let the tour begin.
HISTORY:
Before the tour begins, I thought I’d share a little bit of Club
33 history with you. For starters, many have asked how Walt
Disney came up with the name Club 33. While I don’t believe
there to be one defining answer, there have been a number of
speculations as to how the Club obtained it’s signature name.
Some have postulated that Walt chose the name based on the
visual presentation of the number “33”. When the number is laid
out on it’s side, it give the appearance of “m m”- short for
Mickey Mouse. Still, it has been suggested that Disneyland named
the Club accordingly based on the park’s relationship with it’s
then 33 corporate sponsors. However, some Disney enthusiasts and
historians tend to believe Club 33 simply received it’s name
based on the address of the Blue Door (which happens to be 33
Royal St.). It has also been suggested that the Club needed to
have a name and physical address (i.e., licensing reasons)
because of it’s decision to serve alcoholic beverages. In fact,
if you input Club 33’s address on a map search program, it will
most likely locate the Club for you. Does this make it a real,
verifiable address? Hmmm? And speaking of alcohol, it’s a well
known fact that Club 33 is the only place in Disneyland where
one can order up a vodka soda with lime, beer, wine, or any
other funky alcoholic drink. (Recommendation: Like Margaritas?
If you get the chance, order the Club’s signature Blue
Margarita—a great drink dressed in a beautiful aqua blue color!
And don’t forget to ask for silver Patron.) Some refute these
explanations regarding the origin of the Club name, while others
hold firmly the Club was aptly named by the majority vote of 33
Corporate Sponsors following Walt’s death. Whatever you choose
to believe is your decision, and it’s definitely worth
additional research if you are interested in the History of the
Club.
 Diving a little deeper into the historical aspects of the Club,
Walt originally envisioned a place where he could entertain
corporate park sponsors and other industry big-shots. Since Walt
planned to entertain people of this caliber, he knew the design
of the Club would need to leave a lasting impression. To
accomplish this, Walt enlisted artists who assisted with laying
out an artistic design and décor that would bring life to Walt’s
vision. It has been said that Walt made a trip to the “real” New
Orleans to pursue the purchase of multiple antiques for the
Club. The trip proved to be successful and the antiques were
positioned in various locations throughout the Club for many to
see. Unfortunately, Walt Disney died just months before the
completion of the Club. The Club was completed in May 1967. He
was never able to see (in totality) the finished product.
Because of his death, it was decided the Club would become
private with the goal of offering limited memberships to the
general public. Throughout it’s history, the Club has played
host to a myriad of dignitaries, celebrities, as well as leaders
from other nations. Even Presidents from the good ‘ole’ U.S.A.
have been known to dine at the Club. So if you ever happen to be
taking in the elegance of Club 33, be sure to keep a watchful
eye. A very “special” person may just be dining next to you.
1ST STOP: THE
DOOR
So what can you expect when you visit the Club? Let’s begin at
the famous door. If you have never seen the iconic blue door,
it’s located to the right of the Blue Bayou restaurant entrance.
It’s easy to miss because it blends in with the New Orleans
theming in the immediate area. Look closely and you will see the
engraved glass “33” plaque next to the door. Outside the door to
your immediate left is the intercom and buzzer. Members and
their guests utilize this feature to notify the host/hostess
inside that their party has arrived. Don’t be surprised if
you’re approached by other park guests as you enter the door.
One of our writers recently fended off a parks guest’s repeated
pleas to take them in with him (it was quite a scene—way too
much drama to describe here)
2ND STOP: THE LOBBY
 Here is where guests are greeted by the Club 33 host or hostess.
If needed, jackets, and other outerwear can be temporarily
stored in a
closet before heading upstairs for your meal. Before
your ascent, be sure and have a look around at the furnishings.
Off in the corner, you film buffs may take notice of an actual
prop used in the motion picture Mary
Poppins. Directly in front
of you stands the antique French Lift elevator (this one does
not drop—we promise). Guests have the option of taking
the
elevator to the dining area, or taking the stairs. Either option
is a nice way to begin your experience. If you take the stairs,
make sure and check out the décor on your way up.
3RD STOP: THE
GALLERY AND LOUNGE AREA
 Whether you choose the elevator or stairs, you will eventually
end up it what is commonly known as The Gallery. You will
immediately take notice of many of the furnishings and art work
including furniture that was reportedly chosen by Lillian
Disney. Another movie prop is nearby--the oak/glass telephone
booth used in the Disney motion picture, “The Happiest
Millionaire”. As you make your way to the main dining room, you
will walk by the glass merchandise cabinet with all sorts of
coveted Club 33 merchandise for sale. Across from the
merchandise cabinet are the restrooms (be sure and check these
out---especially the “Throne” in the woman’s restroom—a must
see-really!). In between the men and ladies room are art works
reflecting The Haunted Mansion
 attraction. As you continue
forward on the right, you will notice a beautiful new bar
responsible for creating your drinks and housing some very fine
wines. To the left, another Mary Poppins movie prop alert (a
marble-top oak table complete with a framed scene from the movie
which sits on top). Also to the left, a beautiful, custom
designed harpsichord reportedly built for Lillian Disney. Disney
artists painted the harpsichord and I have been told it can
actually be played---Although, be warned. I would ask first to
play it ( I can’t imagine the cost of breaking a string on that
thing). Before entering the Main Dining room, be sure to take
notice of the massive Pirates of the Caribbean art work
displayed on the lounge area wall.
4TH STOP: THE
MAIN DINING ROOM
 Beautifully decorated in 19th century décor, the Main Dining
room is where most guests will find themselves seated for their
dining experience. Upon entrance, you will notice how the room
is elegantly dressed in Disney artwork, flowers, chandeliers,
lavish blue drapery, and wall sconces. The Fireplace and mantle
are situated in the center of the main dining room and are
usually adorned with flowers. The fireplace looks especially
nice during the Christma s holidays as it is decorated with
wreaths, garland, and other Holiday embellishments. Take notice
of the French doors that surround the room in various places.
Most of these doors are able to be opened and will lead guests
out to the balcony area. From the balcony area, you will have
unique views of New Orleans Square, parts of Frontierland, and
the Rivers of America. If you happen to have an evening seating,
be sure and check out the Fantasia show from the balcony. While
some of the trees may obstruct a full view, you will
nevertheless be moved by viewing a Fantasia performance from
this perspective.
5TH STOP: THE
TROPHY ROOM
There is a second dining room located across from the elevator
on the second floor. Once you exit the elevator, you can
immediately see the entrance into what has been named “The
Trophy Room” or “Disney Room.” From my experience, larger
parties are usually seated in this dining area. Depending on
your party size, you may have a chance to be seated here instead
of the main dining room. And you won’t be disappointed. A quick
survey around the room reveals some interesting fixtures. If you
look above your table, you will notice microphones in the center
of each chandelier. These were originally installed during the
time the Club was built. Rumor has it the microphones were
placed there so that guest conversations could be heard. For
example, an exclamation of “I wish I had more butter” would lead
a server to present himself at the table honoring your request
without the need for asking. In all fairness, some refute this
rumor. However, it is known that Walt wanted to implement the
use of Audio-Animatronic technology. Some believe the
microphones were used to capture sounds of table conversations
while show characters interacted with their seated guests. One
particular audio animatronic still stands in the room today.
Look high in the corner and you will find an audio anamatronic
Condor. The Condor was originally planned to interact with
guests. Despite their presence today, the microphones and Condor
are completely non-functional. In fact, it has been said the
system was never fully operational. Nevertheless, the room
contains various antiques, awards, and pictures that are worth
checking out even if you are not seated in this room.
 LUNCH OR
DINNER?:
This is a question asked many times by first timers who have
never experienced the Club. There are indeed some differences
worth mentioning. Up until recently, lunch at Club 33 used to
consist of a full buffet service. This would include separate
food stations for your salads, main entrees, desserts, and even
the sorely missed pasta station. Currently, lunch now consists
of a partial buffet (salad and desserts) with guests ordering
there main entrees via traditional table service. Dinner is full
traditional table service. Is one better than the other? That’s
a hard question to answer. Most people tend to prefer dinner as
it seems to better capture the elegance and ambience of the
Club. No matter what you choose, you can be sure your time at
Club 33 will be special. And you have been warned. You will be
planning your return visit even before you leave!
 MEMBERSHIP:
They are approximately 400 members who belong to Club 33.
Currently, count on waiting between 7 to 10 years before you can
become a member (talk about long- suffering!) This is due to the
fact that most members are choosing to renew their memberships
on a regular basis. In fact, some of the memberships have been
around as long as the aniamatronic condor in the trophy room
(yeah, I know what your thinkin’). So if you are even
considering becoming a member, it’s best to contact the Club,
sign up now, join a gym, and stay healthy so you can eventually
enjoy your membership. Did I forget to mention to start saving
your pennies now? Here is the breakdown as it relates to the
kinds of memberships and their costs:
A) The Corporate Membership- initial membership fee of $20,000
followed by annual dues of $5,825 for the charter member and
$4,375 for associate members. This membership allows the
corporate member of an organization to designate up to nine
associate members.
B) The Limited Corporate Membership- initial membership fee of
$10,000 followed by an annual dues of $4,375. This membership
designates one person from the organization as the member (no
associate members). In addition, the membership is transferable
to another individual within the organization whenever
necessary.
 C) Gold Membership- or individual membership has an initial fee
of $7,500 followed by annual dues of $3,025. This membership is
non-transferable.
Resource information for the portions of the above information
come from the Club 33 information letter as well as various
discussions with Club 33 staff that have taken place over
several years.
Interested in talking more about Club 33? Take the service
elevator to the Lobby located on the First Floor. There you will
find the forum Tip Top Club 33 Table Talk.
CANDLELIGHT CLUB 33 PICTURES:
HOTEL
HALL OF FAME
The Hotel Hall of Fame was created out of respect and admiration
for select castmembers who go above and beyond in making our
experience at the Parks extra special. We sincerely appreciate
all your hard work! This is our way of saying “thanks” for
making our Disney moments so memorable. Congratulations to the
following serviceElevator.com honorees:
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Jessica has been with Disney since May 2006. Jessica
began her castmember experience at Ariel's Grotto at
Disney's California Adventure Park. Jessica's enthusiasm
for her work shines like a Christmas star. She has been
known to greet many of her guests with a great big hug.
She is attentive and always willing to go the "extra
mile" for the people she is serving. Her current work
location is (you guessed it)- The Cove Bar in DCA. When
asked what the best thing about working at The Cove Bar
was, she said-"All the hot men!"
Congratulations Jessica on being inaugurated into SE's
Hotel Hall of Fame!
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JESSICA |
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Rachelle has worked for Disney since 1988. Her first
job was at The Carnation Plaza Gardens in Disneyland
Park. Rachelle is always quick to greet her guests with
a beautiful smile. The words dependable and loyal are
used to describe Rachelle by her guests and well as her
co-workers. Rachelle says she loves where she is
currently working (at The Cove Bar in DCA) because "she
loves her regulars, she loves the other bartenders, and
loves serving the drink of the gods....alcohol".
Congratulations Rachelle on being inaugurated into SE's
Hotel Hall of Fame!
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RACHELLE |
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You can find Michal on Main St. at the Magic Kingdom
at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. For 9 years,
Michal has been cutting hair at The Harmony Barber Shop.
Michal has an incredible sense of humor and
extraordinary people skills. Guests travel thousands of
miles just to have their hair cut by Michal. As a
dedicated castmember, Michal is a "cut" above the rest
(we just had to say that!).
Congratulations Michal on being inaugurated into SE’s
Hotel Hall of Fame! |
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MICHAL |
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Lisa has been a castmember for the past 16 years.
She has worked at various locations both in the
Disneyland and California Adventure parks. Most
recently, you will find Lisa at the Cove Bar in DCA.
Lisa is personable, warm, and friendly. She strives for
guest satisfaction on an A+ level. Numerous guests are
attracted to Lisa’s excellent work ethic and ask for her
by name on many occasions.
Congratulations Lisa on being inaugurated into SE’s
Hotel Hall of Fame! |
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LISA |
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Bell Hop Award. Check
back often to see who’s 
