How to Get Into the Magic Castle

The Magic Castle is the home of the Academy of Magical Arts and was opened in 1963 in a restored Victorian home in the Hollywood Hills. It is also an exclusive social club for magicians and magic enthusiasts from around the world. Guests who are lucky enough to gain entrance to the private club have the opportunity to enjoy dinner and watch magic shows in the different theaters inside the Castle. Getting in, however, requires more than just reservations--the Magic Castle is exclusively for members and their guests. If you don't know a magician, don't worry -- there are several ways to score an invitation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Getting In

1. Get a guest pass from a member. If you have a friend who is a member, ask if they can give you a guest pass for the evening you wish to attend. If you don't know a member personally, visit the Magic Castle's web site and click on "Now Appearing." E-mail the magicians who are on the schedule for the date you want to attend and ask if they are offering guest passes. They will usually be able to offer you an invitation.

2. Stay at a participating hotel. Both the Hollywood Hills Hotel and the Magic Castle Hotel offer guests a guest pass to the Magic Castle.

3. Become a member. If you're a budding magician or just a magic hobbyist, you can apply to become a member on the Magic Castle's web site. Membership will allow you to visit the Magic Castle as often as you want.

Tips & Warnings

• Dress appropriately. The Magic Castle has a formal dress code that requires a jacket and tie for men, and cocktail or evening attire for women. The Magic Castle is 21 and up with the exception of Sunday brunch. Dinner reservations are recommended.

Resources

• The World Famous Magic Castle
• Magic Castle Hotel
• Hollywood Hills Hotel