Rebel Wilson once joked that Club 33 is like “Disney’s Illuminati”—and she might not be far off. This ultra-exclusive club is hidden in plain sight at Disney parks, accessible only to a select few who pay jaw-dropping membership fees and follow its strict rules. From secret entrances to celebrity scandals, Club 33 is shrouded in mystery and luxury.

In this article, we’re spilling the secrets of Disney’s most elite experience, revealing everything from its hidden doors to the outrageous reason Rebel Wilson got banned.

1. Club 33’s Strict No-Photo Policy Led to Rebel Wilson’s Disneyland Ban

Club 33 is known for its air of mystery and exclusivity, and part of that allure comes from its strict rules—especially its no-photography policy. Members and guests are prohibited from taking photos in *most* areas of Club 33 locations to preserve its mystique and offer an exclusive experience away from the public eye. Breaking this rule can lead to serious consequences, as Rebel Wilson found out the hard way.

The actress and self-proclaimed “Disney Adult” was banned from Disneyland for 30 days after snapping a photo inside one of Disneyland’s secret bathrooms—an off-limits area under the same privacy policies as Club 33. However, Wilson’s celebrity status gave her a unique out: she was allowed to choose which 30 days she’d be banned. She humorously recounted on The Daily Show that she picked a month she’d already be away filming, ensuring her Disney visits wouldn’t be too disrupted.

Despite the temporary ban, Wilson remains a die-hard Disney fan and an official member of Club 33. She even joked about being part of the “Disney Illuminati” and jokingly hinted at secret gatherings for members. Her love for Disney is evident, from her engagement at Disneyland to her private park celebrations, but the incident highlights just how seriously Disney takes the privacy of Club 33 and its hidden spaces.

For Disney enthusiasts, Wilson’s story serves as a reminder: if you’re lucky enough to visit Club 33 or any of Disney’s secretive spots, keep your camera tucked away and savor the exclusivity in the moment.

2. Club 33’s Membership Costs Are as Exclusive as Its Access

Becoming a member of Disney’s Club 33 isn’t just about being a Disney superfan—it’s about having the resources to back it up. The club’s reported membership fees are jaw-dropping, with initiation costs over $25,000 and annual dues of $30,000+. These steep costs make Club 33 one of the most exclusive private memberships in the world.

While the price tag is enough to deter most Disney fans, the perks are unparalleled. Members enjoy exclusive access to Club 33 lounges, VIP tours, early park entry, private dining experiences, and even special event invitations. However, the expense doesn’t end there. Many members also indulge in the club’s exclusive merchandise, adding another layer of exclusivity to their membership.

Though Disney doesn’t officially confirm the fees, these numbers have circulated widely among insiders and media reports, solidifying Club 33’s reputation as a luxury status symbol. For many Disney enthusiasts, the cost of membership is an unattainable dream—but for those who make it in, it’s a ticket to unparalleled Disney magic.

3. The Mystery Behind Club 33’s Name Sparks Endless Theories

The origin of the name “Club 33” has been the subject of speculation and intrigue since the club’s opening in 1967. While Disney has never provided an official explanation, several popular theories have circulated, adding to the allure of this exclusive retreat.

The most widely accepted theory is that the name comes from the club’s original address: 33 Royal Street, nestled in the heart of New Orleans Square at Disneyland. This straightforward explanation fits perfectly with the club’s unassuming entrance, marked only by a discreet “33” plaque.

Another theory ties the name to Disneyland’s 33 original corporate sponsors, who supported the park’s early development. These sponsors included iconic brands like Coca-Cola and Kodak, and Club 33 was reportedly intended as a space to entertain them in style.

More whimsical theories abound, including a connection to Walt Disney’s love of jazz clubs—many of which were located at addresses with similar numerical names. Some even speculate the number has symbolic or personal significance to Walt himself.

While the true origin of the name may remain a mystery, the debate is part of what makes Club 33 so intriguing. Its enigmatic title adds to its reputation as a place shrouded in exclusivity and wonder, leaving Disney fans to continue guessing and imagining the story behind its iconic number.

4. Club 33 Members Spent $400,000 in Legal Fees After Disney Kicked Them Out

In a scandal worthy of a Disney drama, longtime Club 33 members Scott and Diana Anderson found themselves ousted from the exclusive club in 2017, leading to a legal battle that cost them an eye-watering $400,000 in legal fees. The controversy began when Scott was accused of public intoxication during a visit to Disneyland—a violation of Club 33’s notoriously strict code of conduct. Disney responded by revoking the Andersons’ membership, ending their access to one of the most exclusive spaces in the parks.

The Andersons fought back, claiming Scott’s behavior was due to a medical condition and accusing Disney of wrongful termination of their membership. They demanded reinstatement and financial compensation, arguing that the decision unfairly tarnished their reputation and stripped them of privileges they had cherished for years.

Despite their claims, Disney stood firm, maintaining that Club 33’s rules apply equally to all members, regardless of tenure or spending power. The jury agreed, ruling in favor of Disney in 2024 and leaving the Andersons out of both the club and nearly half a million dollars.

This case highlighted the lengths to which Disney will go to protect the integrity of Club 33 and enforce its standards. Even within the walls of Disney’s most elite enclave, the rules are clear: no one, not even high-spending members, is immune from consequences. For fans of the club, the lawsuit serves as a reminder that Club 33 isn’t just a place of privilege—it’s a privilege you have to earn and keep.

5. Club 33 Opened in 1967, Becoming Disneyland’s Most Exclusive Experience

Club 33 officially opened its doors on June 15, 1967, cementing its place as the most exclusive spot in Disneyland. Tucked away in New Orleans Square, the club was designed to be a private haven for VIPs and corporate sponsors. Its debut came just five months after Walt Disney’s passing, making it one of the last projects he envisioned for the park.

Walt Disney himself planned the club as a space to entertain dignitaries and key investors, inspired by the VIP lounges he experienced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Every detail of Club 33 was carefully curated, from the elegant decor filled with antiques and artwork to its discreet location at 33 Royal Street. Though Walt never got to see its completion, his vision of blending luxury with Disney magic lives on.

Club 33 was also groundbreaking as the first location in Disneyland to serve alcohol, a policy that set it apart from the rest of the park. Over the years, the club has become synonymous with exclusivity and mystery, its membership highly sought after and its doors open only to a privileged few.

Today, Club 33 stands as a testament to Walt Disney’s innovation, offering a hidden world of opulence and charm to those lucky enough to cross its threshold. It’s not just a piece of Disneyland history—it’s a living legacy of Walt’s dream to create an experience like no other.

6. Getting Into Club 33 Requires More Than Money—It’s About Connections and Patience

Joining Club 33 isn’t as simple as writing a check, even if you can afford the fees.  The path to membership is shrouded in mystery and exclusivity, requiring a combination of connections, patience, and a bit of luck.

Disney doesn’t openly advertise how to join, and the application process is by invitation only. Prospective members often need to know someone within Disney’s inner circles or rely on existing members to recommend them. Even then, there’s no guarantee of acceptance.

Adding to the challenge is the years-long waitlist. Some reports suggest it can take 10 to 14 years to move up the queue, depending on when Disney opens new spots. At times, the waitlist has been closed entirely, leaving hopefuls in limbo.

Once invited, applicants are vetted by Disney, with a focus on their dedication to the brand and whether they’ll respect the club’s strict codes of conduct and confidentiality. It’s not just about financial means—it’s about being the right fit for one of Disney’s most prestigious memberships.

For those who make it in, the payoff is unparalleled access to Disney’s most exclusive perks, including private lounges, VIP tours, and special events. But the journey to membership is as much about persistence as it is about privilege, making Club 33 a status symbol that money alone can’t buy.

7. Club 33’s Hidden Entrances Are a Disney Secret Few Ever Notice

Part of the mystique of Club 33 lies in its hidden entrances, seamlessly blending into the surrounding areas of Disney parks. At Walt Disney World, each Club 33 lounge is carefully designed to reflect the theme of its park, making these entrances nearly invisible to casual visitors.

In Magic Kingdom, the Club 33 location is known as Captain’s Quarters, tucked into Adventureland. Its entrance blends with the nautical theme of the area, fitting right in with the swashbuckling spirit of the nearby attractions.

At EPCOT, the Constellation Club is hidden within the sleek and modern architecture of the park’s World Discovery area. The entrance fits perfectly into the futuristic aesthetic of the park, complementing EPCOT’s celebration of science and innovation.

Over in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Spotlight Lounge nods to the park’s golden age of Hollywood and aviation. Its discreet entrance is located near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Echo Lake, subtly integrating into the old-Hollywood vibe of the area.

Finally, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Harambe House is nestled within the Africa section of the park, near the Festival of the Lion King theater. The building is marked with a Swahili sign reading “Thelathini na tatu,” which translates to 33 adding a touch of cultural authenticity to its hidden location.

For members, these hidden entrances are the gateway to exclusive luxury and privacy. For Disney fans, just knowing about these secretive spots adds an extra layer of intrigue to the parks—and maybe even inspires a treasure hunt to find them!

8. Walt Disney’s Vision for Club 33 Was to Blend Magic and Elegance for VIPs

Club 33 was born out of Walt Disney’s desire to create a sophisticated, private space where he could entertain corporate sponsors, dignitaries, and VIPs away from the hustle and bustle of the park. Inspired by the VIP lounges he experienced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, Walt wanted a place that combined luxury with Disney magic, offering an unparalleled experience for his most important guests.

Every detail of Club 33 reflects Walt’s vision of elegance and exclusivity. From the club’s refined decor to its hidden location in New Orleans Square, Walt envisioned it as a retreat where guests could enjoy gourmet meals, top-tier service, and a tranquil atmosphere. He even personally selected antiques and art pieces for the club, ensuring every corner reflected the charm and sophistication he wanted to achieve.

Tragically, Walt Disney passed away in December 1966, just months before Club 33 opened in June 1967. His brother, Roy Disney, made sure the project was completed according to Walt’s plans, making Club 33 one of the final projects Walt directly influenced.

Today, Club 33 carries on Walt’s legacy of blending exclusivity, innovation, and the magic of Disney. For those lucky enough to step inside, it’s a reminder of the man behind the magic and his dedication to creating extraordinary experiences for everyone involved in his vision.