Cult-favorite movie's iconic Route 66 cafe faces uncertain future as highway turns 100

One of Route 66’s best-known California landmarks is fighting to keep its doors open as America’s “Mother Road” celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Years of roof leaks left rainwater pouring into the 1950s-era building, threatening the memorabilia left behind by visitors over the decades, KTLA reported. In 2024, supporters raised enough money through a GoFundMe fundraiser to replace the roof and interior ceiling.

A separate GoFundMe is now seeking donations to reopen the cafe’s kitchen and upgrade its septic system.

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The next goal is reopening the kitchen before preserving the historic stop for future travelers, according to the cafe’s website.

The Pruett family has said it is still determining the landmark’s long-term future, the Los Angeles Times reported, but the cafe remains open daily for visitors looking to experience the iconic stop along historic Route 66 upon its centennial year.