No, you don't have to pay the actual domme. Think of visiting there as a place to meet like minded people and find a potential domme/girlfriend.

Many local groups hold "munches" in restaurants, so you can meet the members in regular clothes outside of the dungeon environment.

You can google munches, BDSM, clubs, etc for your specific area if you'd like to meet folks in real life.

Note: Be aware of the rules for the munch before you attend. Some have taboo topics, while others are fairly open.

You can also attend a BDSM expo or fair where they sell toys and have classes to increase your knowledge base and people network.