4 ways to get into the Magic Castle
Getting a membership at the Magic Castle, a magicians’ only clubhouse in Hollywood, is not particularly difficult. The century-old Victorian mansion has been the Academy of Magical Arts’ somewhat secretive headquarters since 1963. Step inside—reservations are required, formal attire is requested, and photos are not permitted—and you’ll find performance parlors, hidden entrances, enigmatic illusions, and other surprises that we won’t spoil for you. Rather than spending years honing your trade as a want-to-be magician, you can enter the Magic Castle using the methods listed below (ranked from easiest to most difficult).
1. Know a member in Magic Castle
This will be the most convenient entrance for the majority of Angelenos. It’s like playing six degrees of separation when trying to find a friend who can get you into the Magic Castle; chances are good that your friend’s cousin’s coworker can.
Members can distribute guest passes like candy; once you have one, you are admitted, but you should plan to spend at least $75 for the cover charge and meals. (The door fee is $25 per person at weekend brunch, $35 on weeknights from Monday through Thursday, and $45 on weekends during the evening—in addition to the $20 valet parking fee.)