For many Disney fans, joining the official Disney fan club—D23—feels like a dream come true. But with multiple membership tiers and a price tag attached to the Gold level, the question remains: is it really worth it?
Let’s break down what the D23 Gold Membership includes, who it’s best for, and when it might make more sense to skip.
What Is the D23 Gold Membership? (And How Much Does It Cost?)
D23 offers a few membership levels, but the Gold tiers are where the exclusive perks start rolling in. Here’s a quick overview:
- General Member (Free) – Access to online content and select announcements
- Gold Member Essential Plan – $49.99/year
- Gold Member Choice Plan – $99.99/year
Gold Members receive:
- A collectible magnet, pin, and special Lorcana trading card
- Access to exclusive merchandise and events
- Discounts on tickets, merch, and more
- A digital subscription to Disney twenty-three
- Essential Plan: Choose 1 collectible item from 4 options
- Choice Plan: Receive all 4 collectible items
Is It for You?
Here’s who might want to go for the Gold:
If you’re a collector
The included exclusive items—especially things like the limited-edition Spirit Jersey—can easily equal or exceed the price of the membership. Some items retail for $80+, so you’re getting solid value if that’s your thing.
If you live in a Disney city
Events and screenings are most often held in places like Anaheim, Orlando, Burbank, or New York. If you’re local (or nearby), you’ll have better access to these limited experiences.
If you’re planning to attend D23 Expo or Destination D23
Gold Members usually get early access to tickets, discounts, and freebies at major fan events. If you’re making the trip anyway, the perks can be a nice bonus.
If you want exclusive merch
From anniversary pins to collectible apparel, D23 Gold Members have access to merchandise you can’t find in Disney stores or parks. Perfect for fans who love rare items.
Why Skip?
This membership isn’t for everyone. You might want to hold off if:
You don’t live near a city where events happen and don’t plan to travel. Most of the in-person experiences are limited to select locations and often sell out fast.
You’re not a collector and don’t care much about exclusive merch or digital content.
You’re mostly a casual fan who just wants Disney updates—you can get a lot of that for free through the D23 website or official social media channels.
Conclusion
The D23 Gold Membership offers great value—but only if you’re the right kind of fan.
If you’re a collector, a frequent Disney event attendee, or someone who lives near Disney-centric cities, the perks (especially the exclusive items and early access) can make the price totally worth it.
But if you’re more of a casual fan, don’t live near major events, or aren’t interested in the collectible aspect, you’re likely better off sticking with the free membership and following Disney content online.
Bottom line?
Go Gold if you want the exclusive perks. Skip it if you’re in it just for the updates.
