Embarking on a virtual journey across the Lone Star State, my Drive-In-a-Day Odyssey led me to the charming WesMer Drive-In Theater, nestled in Mercedes, Texas. The drive itself was a testament to Texas’s vastness, a five-and-a-half-hour stretch from Hockley, filled with the company of engaging audiobooks. The anticipation of experiencing a piece of Americana at WesMer made the miles melt away.
The name “WesMer” itself is a nod to its location, perfectly situated between the towns of Mercedes and Weslaco. Delving into its history, online sources suggest an opening in the “late 1940s.” While not listed in the theater catalogs of ’48 and ’49, the Wes-Mer made its debut by 1952. Like many drive-ins, it faced closure in the mid-1980s, but thankfully, the silver screen flickered back to life in 1994, marking a welcome revival for this community gem.
WesMer Drive-In Theater Ticket Booth and Screen in Mercedes, Texas
One of the unique aspects of WesMer is its proximity to a flea market – not just nearby, but directly across the street. This offers a quirky juxtaposition of daytime bargain hunting and nighttime cinematic escape. Stepping into the concession stand, I was pleased to find a menu that went beyond the typical fare. Opting for a local favorite, I savored a hearty Frito pie and a comforting bowl of chili, complementing the classic popcorn and bottled water for a truly satisfying drive-in meal.
On this particular evening, WesMer was showcasing “Assassin’s Creed.” While a single-screen drive-in might limit choices, the experience itself is the main attraction. Despite the movie’s less-than-stellar Tomatometer score, the magic of watching a film under the Texas stars at WesMer Drive-In was undeniable.
For those planning a visit to Wesmer Mercedes, excellent dining options are close by. Cortino’s Italian Restaurant in Weslaco, a short drive away, is a highly recommended family-run establishment. Known for its freshly made pasta and homemade desserts, it’s the perfect spot for a pre-movie dinner. Accommodation is also conveniently located in Weslaco, with the Holiday Inn Express offering comfortable rooms equipped with mini-fridges, microwaves, and Keurig coffee machines – amenities that enhance any traveler’s stay.
Adding a touch of local color to the Mercedes area, a short trip to nearby Hidalgo reveals an unusual roadside attraction: the world’s largest killer bee statue. This ten-foot-high monument, commissioned by the Hidalgo Economic Development Department, stands proudly in front of Hidalgo city hall, a testament to the quirky charm of South Texas.
WesMer Drive-In in Mercedes, Texas, is more than just a movie theater; it’s a nostalgic experience, a taste of Americana, and a reminder of simpler times. It’s a destination that combines classic cinema with local flavors and unique attractions, making it a worthwhile stop on any Texas road trip.
