Picture this: you’re wandering through Mickey Avenue at Shanghai Disneyland, surrounded by thousands of excited guests, when suddenly you spot an understated door marked with a simple “33.” Behind that unassuming entrance lies one of Disney’s most exclusive experiences – Club 33 Shanghai, where celebrities, business moguls, and Disney VIPs escape the crowds for an extraordinary dining adventure. Let me take you inside this legendary club and reveal everything you need to know about one of Disney’s best-kept secrets!
The Fascinating History Behind Club 33 Shanghai
Club 33’s story begins not in Shanghai, but with Walt Disney himself back in 1967. After experiencing the VIP lounges at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, Walt envisioned a private sanctuary within Disneyland where corporate sponsors and distinguished guests could conduct business away from the bustling park crowds. While Walt never lived to see his vision realized, Club 33 opened six months after his passing and became the only location in Disneyland serving alcoholic beverages!
The Shanghai location opened alongside Shanghai Disney Resort in June 2016, marking Club 33’s expansion to Asia. Unlike its sister locations, Shanghai’s Club 33 draws inspiration from Disney’s beloved 1940 animated masterpiece “Fantasia,” creating a unique dining atmosphere that celebrates classical music and magical artistry!
What makes Shanghai’s Club 33 particularly special is its role in Disney’s largest international expansion. As part of a joint venture where Disney holds 43% ownership and Shanghai Shendi Group owns the rest, this location represents Disney’s commitment to bringing exclusive experiences to Chinese Disney fans!
Location and the Secret Entrance
Finding Club 33 Shanghai requires a bit of insider knowledge. The exclusive club sits strategically at the top of Mickey Avenue – Shanghai Disneyland’s version of Main Street USA. Unlike the hidden entrance in Disneyland’s New Orleans Square, Shanghai’s Club 33 features a more prominent location near the park’s entrance, though it remains discretely marked.
The entrance features an arched doorway with the iconic “33” address, flanked by painted trees that blend seamlessly with Mickey Avenue’s theming. According to Disney Imagineering project manager Michael Chase, who designed elements of the nearby Walt Disney Grand Theatre, the location provides convenient access for VIPs while maintaining the exclusivity that defines Club 33!
The club’s proximity to Disneytown (Shanghai Disney Resort’s shopping and dining district) makes it easily accessible for members arriving via the resort’s main entrance. This strategic placement allows for quick entry and exit without traversing the entire theme park!
Inside Shanghai’s Club 33
Step through those exclusive doors and you’ll discover a two-story masterpiece that transports you into the world of “Fantasia.” The first floor features an elegant reception area where members check in before ascending to the main dining experience!
The staircase itself is a work of art, adorned with stunning chandeliers and magical fairies from the Nutcracker Suite sequence in “Fantasia.” As you climb toward the second floor, you’re literally ascending into Disney’s classical music fantasy!
The second floor houses the main dining area, known as the Garden View Room – a spectacular circular space accommodating approximately 100 guests. The centerpiece is a breathtaking floral arrangement that guests consistently describe as photograph-worthy. Private dining rooms with curtain partitions offer more intimate experiences for smaller groups or business meetings.
One of Shanghai Club 33’s most coveted features is its private balcony overlooking the park, providing exclusive viewing for Shanghai Disneyland’s “Ignite the Dream” nighttime spectacular. This elevated perspective transforms the already magical fireworks show into an ultra-exclusive experience!
Membership Pricing
While Disney keeps Club 33 membership costs closely guarded, leaked information and court documents have revealed the substantial investment required. Though specific Shanghai pricing remains undisclosed, we can look at other Club 33 locations for context.
At Disneyland, annual dues reportedly reach $31,500, with initiation fees ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 depending on membership level. Walt Disney World’s Club 33 requires a $33,000 initiation fee plus $15,000 annual dues. Given Shanghai’s status as Disney’s newest and most technologically advanced resort, membership costs likely fall within this premium range.
The pricing reflects not just dining access, but entry into Disney’s most exclusive community. Members aren’t simply paying for meals – they’re investing in unparalleled access, privacy, and prestige that money typically can’t buy!
The Exclusive Waitlist and Application Process
Unlike purchasing regular Disney experiences, joining Club 33 requires patience, connections, and considerable financial resources. The application process varies by location, but Shanghai’s Club 33 follows Disney’s established pattern of exclusivity!
Prospective members must typically submit letters of inquiry expressing interest, though Disney doesn’t guarantee membership availability each year. The selection process has evolved from simple applications to requiring current member referrals, similar to prestigious country clubs.
Background checks and social media screening have become standard practice, ensuring potential members align with Disney’s family-friendly image and Club 33’s sophisticated atmosphere. The interview process explores candidates’ motivations for joining, involvement in other exclusive organizations, and professional backgrounds.
Current waiting times remain closely guarded secrets, though industry insiders suggest multi-year waits are standard for all Club 33 locations. Shanghai’s relatively recent opening might offer slightly shorter waits compared to the decades-long lists at Disneyland!
World-Class Services and Exclusive Amenities
Club 33 membership extends far beyond dining privileges, offering a comprehensive VIP Disney experience. Members receive priority access throughout Shanghai Disneyland, including expedited attraction access similar to premium FastPass services!
The dining experience itself sets Club 33 apart from typical theme park restaurants. Professional service rivals high-end establishments, with knowledgeable staff accommodating dietary restrictions and special requests. The culinary team creates sophisticated menus that blend international cuisine with local flavors, reflecting Shanghai’s cosmopolitan character.
Exclusive merchandise available only to Club 33 members provides subtle ways to display membership status. These limited-edition items often become collector’s pieces, adding value beyond their practical use!
Private event access represents another major membership benefit. Club 33 locations host exclusive celebrations, character meet-and-greets, and special presentations unavailable to regular park guests. These events create networking opportunities among Disney’s most devoted fans and successful individuals!
Celebrity Visitors and Famous Members
Club 33’s celebrity connections add to its mystique and appeal. While member lists remain confidential, various sources have revealed high-profile visitors and rumored members across all Club 33 locations.
The original Disneyland Club 33 has hosted numerous celebrities including Tom Hanks, who reportedly receives special accommodation including private Thanksgiving dinners. Katy Perry faced controversy for offering Club 33 access in charity auctions, while Rebel Wilson was suspended for photographing restricted areas!
Other rumored celebrity members include Neil Patrick Harris, John Stamos, Tiger Woods, Mariah Carey, and Dwayne Johnson. These high-profile associations enhance Club 33’s reputation as a gathering place for entertainment industry elite.
Shanghai’s Club 33 has likely hosted Chinese celebrities and international stars visiting the resort, though specific names remain closely guarded due to privacy policies. Adventures by Disney groups occasionally include celebrities on their exclusive Club 33 dining experiences!
Gourmet Dining
Shanghai Club 33’s menu reflects both Disney’s commitment to culinary excellence and respect for local dining preferences. The restaurant operates on a prix fixe system, offering multi-course meals that rival fine dining establishments worldwide.
Recent menu highlights have included hamachi and grapefruit sorbet with green apple wasabi granité as appetizers, showcasing the kitchen’s fusion approach. Main courses like Australian wagyu short rib demonstrate the premium ingredients and expert preparation that justify Club 33’s exclusive reputation.
The dining experience emphasizes presentation and service as much as flavor. Each dish arrives as a carefully composed work of art, often featuring subtle Disney theming that adds whimsy without compromising sophistication.
Wine and cocktail selections complement the food menu, featuring premium spirits and carefully curated vintages. The bar program reflects both international standards and local preferences, creating beverages that appeal to Shanghai’s diverse international community.
Dietary accommodations receive special attention, with chefs adapting meals for allergies and restrictions while maintaining the same level of presentation and flavor. This personalized approach exemplifies the white-glove service that defines the Club 33 experience.
Shanghai Disneyland Club 33 Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Club 33 Shanghai cost?
While Disney doesn’t publish official pricing, membership costs likely mirror other locations with initiation fees of $25,000-$100,000 and annual dues of $15,000-$30,000.
Can you visit Club 33 Shanghai without membership?
Access is extremely limited to members and their guests. Adventures by Disney occasionally includes Club 33 dining in premium tour packages, representing one of the few ways non-members can experience the club.
What’s included with Club 33 membership?
Benefits typically include exclusive dining access, priority attraction access, VIP tours, special events, exclusive merchandise, and reserved viewing areas for shows and parades.
How long is the Club 33 waiting list?
Disney doesn’t disclose waiting times, but industry sources suggest multi-year waits are standard across all locations.
What should you wear to Club 33?
Business casual dress codes apply, with jeans allowed if not torn or heavily faded. Many members choose to dress up to enhance the special occasion.
Can children visit Club 33?
Yes, children are welcome for both lunch and dinner service, though the lengthy dinner format may be more challenging for younger guests.
Is Club 33 the same at all Disney parks?
Each location offers unique theming and menus while maintaining the same level of exclusivity and service quality.
Are photos allowed inside Club 33 Shanghai?
Photography policies vary by location. Disneyland allows photos in dining areas but prohibits bathroom photography, while Walt Disney World maintains stricter restrictions.
Final Thoughts
The magic of Club 33 Shanghai lies not just in its exclusivity, but in its ability to create genuinely special moments within an already magical environment. Whether you’re a Disney superfan dreaming of membership or simply curious about one of the theme park world’s most exclusive experiences, Club 33 represents the ultimate intersection of Disney magic and luxury hospitality. While most of us may never pass through those famous doors, understanding this hidden world adds another layer to appreciating the incredible attention to detail that makes Disney parks truly special.
For those lucky enough to secure membership, Club 33 Shanghai offers an unparalleled way to experience Disney magic – where every meal becomes a celebration, every visit feels special, and the distinction between guest and VIP disappears entirely. It’s not just dining; it’s joining Disney’s most exclusive family, one magical meal at a time.