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Bagdad Cafe

Newberry Springs, California

CaliforniaRoadside AttractionShopping

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Out in the Mojave Desert, between Barstow and Ludlow, stands the world-famous Bagdad Cafe: an unlikely Route 66 landmark with a Hollywood story.

The building first opened in 1975 as the Sidewinder Cafe, serving travelers on the National Trails Highway. In 1987, German filmmaker Percy Adlon chose the modest roadside cafe and the neighboring Henning Motel as the filming location for his indie drama Bagdad Cafe. The film, which starred Jack Palance, CCH Pounder, and Marianne Sägebrecht, didn’t make much of a splash in the U.S. but became a cult classic in Europe, especially in Germany and France. Fans still flock here by the busload, often humming the haunting theme song “Calling You” as they step inside.

In 1995, new owners Andrea and Harold Pruett renamed the restaurant to match its on-screen fame. Andrea, who welcomed travelers for three decades, turned the Bagdad Cafe into a gathering place covered in flags, stickers, and notes left by visitors from all over the world. Sadly, she passed away in January 2026.

Today, the Bagdad Cafe is no longer operating as a full-service restaurant, but it remains open for visitors. Travelers can stop to take photos, browse souvenirs, and even grab a cold drink while soaking in the movie history. The silver Airstream trailer once used by Jack Palance as a dressing room still sits outside, adding to the site’s cinematic charm.

While the days of sitting down for a burger here are on hold, the Bagdad Cafe continues to draw road trippers who want to experience one of Route 66’s quirkiest desert icons.

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Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66

Bagdad Cafe

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Address:

46548 National Trails Hwy, Newberry Springs, CA 92365

Hours:

9:00am - 7:00pm (Daily)

Cost:

$

Phone Number:

(760) 267-6486

Official Website Get Directions
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Photos Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California

Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66
Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California on Route 66

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California, here are some things to know before you go.

What is the movie Bagdad Cafe about?

Bagdad Cafe is a quirky comedy-drama about an unlikely friendship between a stranded German tourist and a cafe owner in the Mojave, transforming their lifeless outpost into a colorful community hub. Though the movie flew under the radar in the U.S., it became a beloved cult classic in Europe (particularly in France and Germany), sparking a stream of road–trip pilgrimages to the cafe.

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What can visitors expect when they stop by today?

While the cafe doesn’t currently serve hot meals, visitors can still pop in, snap photos, shop for souvenirs and enjoy a soda or coffee. The interior remains a treasure trove of memorabilia, with country flags, guestbook pages, stickers, and memorabilia from decades of international visitors.

Is there parking?

Yes. There is plenty of parking for vehicles of all sizes between the cafe and the Old Henning Motel Sign.

Will the Bagdad Cafe ever open as a restaurant again?

Hopefully! The Bagdad Cafe has recently gotten a new roof and a new ceiling inside. They hope to open the kitchen again to visitors. Those looking to help can donate to the cafe to help bring it back to life.

Where to Stay Near Bagdad Cafe

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these hotels near Route 66. While there are no Route 66 motels or hotels in Newberry Springs, there are plenty of options in nearby Barstow.

California Inn

California Inn is a contemporary hotel in Barstow that offers fine service with a variety of amenities. Find an outdoor swimming pool and on-site fitness center, and be sure to stop for a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast before you hit the road.

Route 66 Motel

The Route 66 Motel in Barstow is a retro 1922 motel best recognized for its classic neon sign. The budget motel features simple rooms with free WiFi, satellite TV, microwaves, and mini-fridges. Select rooms even have round beds! Outside look for Instagram worthy photo ops with murals and antique cars.

Attractions Near Bagdad Cafe on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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