Here’s Are the Perks That Come With This $30K Disney Park Membership
In 2017, Scott and Diana Anderson found themselves embroiled in a contentious incident that would lead to their expulsion from Disneyland’s elite Club 33. Security personnel reported that Scott appeared intoxicated while visiting the park, an assertion he and his wife vehemently denied. This incident prompted Disney to revoke their membership, which cost approximately $31,500 annually.
The Andersons subsequently filed a lawsuit against Disney, aiming to reclaim their membership and seek damages of $231,000. Their claims rested on the argument that their expulsion was unjust, asserting that Scott was actually suffering from a vestibular migraine, leading to his apparent symptoms on the night in question.
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However, after a lengthy legal process, a jury sided with Disney, affirming the company’s right to expel members who do not adhere to its rules. This decision left the couple facing significant financial repercussions, having incurred legal bills amounting to nearly $400,000 in their quest for reinstatement.
As dedicated members of Disneyland Club 33, the Andersons were no strangers to the many perks associated with their membership. They frequently visited Disneyland, often registering between 60 and 80 trips each year, immersing themselves in the unique privileges offered to Club 33 members.
Disneyland Club 33 represents a pinnacle of exclusivity within the Disneyland experience. Located in New Orleans Square, this private dining club is not open to the general public, making membership highly coveted. The demographic of Club 33 members often includes affluent individuals who view the membership as a status symbol, affording them unique advantages within the park’s esteemed environments.
The initiation fee and annual dues can amount to roughly $30,000, contributing to the allure and exclusivity of the Club 33 experience. While many Disneyland enthusiasts dream of attaining such membership, the significant financial commitment is a notable barrier to entry.
So, what exactly are the perks that come with such an exclusive membership?
Park Entry and Guest Passes
Any member of Club 33 has access to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure 365 days per year. At this point, even the top-tier Inspire Magic Key has blackout dates, so that unlimited access is an exclusive perk.
In addition to being able to get into Disneyland and DCA whenever they want, Club 33 members are also given 50 complimentary theme park tickets to give to friends. Disneyland tickets recently hit an all-time high, with some days costing more than $200 just to get into one of the parks. So, these tickets add up to thousands of dollars for “free”.
Related: As Guests Fume, Disney Tries to Justify Major Price Increase
Complimentary Lightning Lane Multi Pass
In October 2021, Disney announced that it was getting rid of its popular — and complimentary — FastPass system and implementing a new system called Disney Genie+. In the beginning, Disney Genie+ cost one flat rate, but soon, it began fluctuating based on the day of the week and the time of year. It could only be purchased the day of and did not work as well at Walt Disney World Resort as it did at Disneyland.
Disney Genie+ was mired in controversy and complaints from the beginning and lasted less than three years. In July 2024, the Lightning Lane Multi Pass system was enacted. It allows guests to pay and book attractions in advance.
Related: Disney’s New Lightning Lane Cuts Multiple Rides
A Club 33 member does not have to pay for the Lightning Lane Multi Pass, as it is one of the perks that come with membership. Each time they visit the parks, they are able to automatically make Lightning Lane reservations.
Exclusive VIP Tours
Guests who regularly visit Disneyland and California Adventure most likely know what the term “plaid” refers to. They are the Disney cast members who lead the private VIP tours around the parks.
These VIP tours can accommodate up to ten guests and cost between $500 and $800 per hour. There is also a seven-hour minimum for the tours. So, the money quickly adds up.
Just like with the theme park tickets and Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Club 33 members are entitled to five private VIP tours per year. That’s more than $10,000 in savings on just the tours.
As you can see, a Club 33 membership cost is nothing to laugh about. It is a lot of money, but there are tens of thousands of dollars worth of perks that come along with it. So, a lot of wealthy Disney lovers might find the cost worth it.
Would you ever be willing to spend $30,000 on a Club 33 membership? Is it a dream of yours to experience Club 33? Let us know in the comments!
Anybody who knows me, knows that other than family I have no greater love than Disney and they also know that Club 33 is on my ‘that’s what I’m getting when I hit the jackpot. I have seriously sent thousands of people to Disneyland and Disney World. It doesn’t matter if I am delivering a trainikng, speech or event. It doesn’t matter if I am coaching Walt, Disney and the magic, joy, fun purpose and possibility of Disney will seep into what I am saying. You have no bigger fan than me. I would love to have met Walt. I met someone who did and he told me it changed his life. I would love to meet Mr Iger – preferrably at Club 33 with my family.
From pin trading, to rides and attractions and talking about Disney I do it all. Life makes sense at Disney. It’s kind and inspirational and shows what’s possible.
I was about 10 when Walt passed and as a kid I made a promise to keep the magic flowing and I still do my best to keep that promise everyday.
I have googled Club 33 and also have it as my daydream place. It reminds me every day that magic is possible and that it’s such a worthy thing to feel and pursue.
To Walt and all the imagineers thank you so much!