MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo.—Rawlings, the sports equipment manufacturer born in St. Louis in the late 1800s, moved its corporate headquarters to Westport Plaza in January and on Friday unveiled what it describes as a “fully immersive brand experience,” a 14,000 square foot hybrid museum and retail store.

“The Rawlings Experience” features two stories of retail for baseball and softball products, along with an homage to winners of the Rawlings Gold Glove Awards, given annually to the best fielders in Major League Baseball. Visitors can design gloves just like the professionals do and test bats in a high-tech batting cage.

There are also photo opportunities with a giant baseball and of course, a giant Gold Glove.

“The company’s been here 137 years. A lot of people in the community don’t even know Rawlings is here,” said Mike Thompson, the company’s Chief Marketing Officer. "We decided to bring this thing to life, build a statement here. We've got the greatest fans in baseball here in St. Louis. We've got a brand that's been around since 1887 the number one brand in baseball and it's a matter of bringing the two together."

The facility is the first of its kind for Rawlings, which moved its company headquarters and roughly 200 employees from Town and Country earlier this year. 

“We are honored to have this national brand and retailer join us knowing that their presence will attract visitors from all over the region who share the passion for baseball,“ said Maryland Heights Mayor Mike Moeller. “From soccer to hockey to baseball, we are dedicated to providing opportunity for athletes and sports fans from across the region. Now, with Rawlings making its home in Westport Plaza we can continue to showcase our city’s love for sports and recreation.”

Among those checking out the facility on Friday was Cardinals President Bill DeWitt III.

“I think Rawlings wanted their headquarters to also showcase the retail and for what they bring to the table with gloves and all this other stuff, it’s a good spot for them,” he said.

Work on the complex isn’t entirely finished. Crews on Monday will start installing a 25-foot television screen that will be visible from the courtyard outside that will play host to watch parties. Installation could be done by the end of the week.

The venue is free and open to the public.