Dollywood Company Named Entertainment Partner of Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge

The Dollywood Company, the premier getaway destination in the Great Smoky Mountains, and Ripken Baseball today announced its collaboration as the official entertainment partner of The Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge. Ripken Baseball tournament participants from all over the country will have access to family-fun theme park destinations including Dollywood Theme Park, Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park, as well as hospitality options at the stunning Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, the premier hotel partner of The Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge, and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Cabins.

“This partnership really is the perfect fit for both sides,” said Craig Ross, president of The Dollywood Company. “Just like Dollywood, from the very beginning The Ripken Experience has been about providing families with opportunities to create memories. We’re proud to give players and their families a chance to extend their visit and spend more time together when they aren’t playing. Having The Ripken Experience in Pigeon Forge further elevates this area’s already well-known status as one of the country’s best family vacation destinations.”

Opening Day at The Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge is planned for March 2016. Week-long tournaments are currently on sale at www.ripkenbaseball.com.

The Dollywood Company will also serve as the title sponsor of four tournaments at The Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge, and will be featured in exclusive signage and vendor spaces throughout the complex. Most importantly, all week-long tournament participants will receive an exclusive all-access pass to the iconic, award-winning Dollywood theme park and Dollywood Splash Country Water Park.

“We are excited to partner with Dollywood and have the opportunity to unite two family-oriented brands, who share similar core values, in one of America’s most beautiful destinations,” said David Bounds, general manager of The Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge. “Together, this partnership will allow us to deliver a remarkable and unique experience to our shared audience and valued customers, both on and off the field.”

The Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge looks out onto the Great Smoky Mountains and features six lighted, synthetic turf fields, as well as a two-level clubhouse with more than 14,000 square feet, a 2,749-square-foot concession/restroom building with an adjacent pavilion. Each field borrows its design from well-known professional ballparks, including Oriole Park at Camden Yards (Baltimore, Maryland), Isotopes Stadium (Albuquerque, New Mexico), and Engel Stadium (Chattanooga, Tennessee).