How to visit LA’s Magic Castle and more secrets about the landmark

One of the most exclusive and interesting spots in Los Angeles is the Magic Castle. Originally a 1909 Hollywood home known as the “Holly Chateau,” the Gothic Renaissance mansion is now a clubhouse for magicians and mystery-seekers.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Magic Castle.

How to get inside

Getting inside the castle can be a little tricky. You can’t just call up and book a visit. There are only three ways you can pay a visit to the Magic Castle.

You can be invited as a guest. There is a membership you can purchase. Or you can become a magician.

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Plan your night

I highly recommend doing some research ahead of time. I have been on regular evenings as well as during holidays when they have special events.

On a regular night there is a list of shows guests can attend:

I’d definitely make a point to see as many as you can while there. You may be required to dine at the castle depending on how you get your tickets. The food is good, but dining can take a while, so plan time for that too.

I’ve also been on nights where they have special performances. Once during Halloween, the castle was filled with actors for a dinner mystery party. Guests had to search the castle and listen to the actors to find the murderer.

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Make sure you don’t miss…

The castle is full of secrets. Visit the piano behind the bar at the entrance. Say “Hey Irma” and request a song… don’t get spooked by what happens next!

There are five bars throughout the place, often equipped with magicians in or near them. It’s rare to walk the halls of the castle without bumping into a small crowd gathered near a magician settled into a corner here and there. So yes, you can see magic outside of the shows too.

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There is a Houdini Chamber where séances are held. Private groups can book the room for a specialized séance experience. According to the castle’s website, the room also has the only set of cuffs Houdini was unable to open.