The Clayton center point is around the area of Washington University in St.Louis.
As with most temperate climates, the best time of year to visit depends on what you want to do. Come in the summer to experience some of the local parks or in the winter to see the lights. There is the nearby St. Louis Art Fair that attracts many visitors each year. In the fall, you can also check out The Big Read, which is an annual literary festival.
The Ritz Carlton offers AAA discounts to members, so if you're part of the club, you can enjoy fine amenities at a fraction of the cost. There are also discounts available at the Charles F Knight Executive Education Center, The Parkway Hotel, and River City Casino & Hotel, and Moonrise Hotel if you are an AAA member. The Rodeway Inn Saint Charles, Hotel Ignacio, and Hollywood Casino Hotel St Louis all offer discounts for senior citizens.
Clayton Plaza Hotel is one of the best midrange options available in Clayton. You will find a 24-hour gym, a fitness center, free breakfast buffet, and an outdoor pool in this hotel that's conveniently located to downtown.
Moonrise Hotel is a good, mid-range hotel that was recently built in 2009. Their bathrooms are a feature if you prefer rainfall showerheads, and they offer designer toiletries at no cost. Enjoy a good workout in their gym, and then get breakfast made to order for a reasonable fee.
Parkway Hotel is another option to consider if you are interested in history or science. One of the best features of this hotel is that it's located within walking distance of two interesting attractions: The St Louis Science Center and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. As for the hotel itself, take a look at its well-manicured rooms and lounge that resemble a much more expensive hotel. Guests appreciate the cleanliness of the rooms and the central location of the hotel.
A mid-range hotel with access to casinos is the River City Casino & Hotel. This hotel does not lack for entertainment options. The most obvious choice would be the on-site casino. You also have five different restaurants to choose from. There is also a nightclub on the property. If you want to venture out for an evening of your stay, the hotel is within walking distance of several parks and a river walk.
A second option for casino lovers would be the Hollywood Casino & Hotel. This is a large, 502-room hotel with a casino and a nightclub. It has seven restaurants and 3 bars to choose from, so you don't have to leave the premises if you don't want to. If you are in town for business at the Lindenwood University or the Scottrade Center, you will be happy to note that this hotel is in close proximity to both. The hotel also has its own 6400 square foot event space that is available for weddings, conferences, and other events.
If you are coming with a group, a popular option is the Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center. The attached conference center is a convenience for group meetings. The lodge has an indoor pool and spa for evening enjoyment. You can also get to Raging Rivers Waterpark quickly. The rustic lodge facade of the building is charming, while the beds and amenities are clean and well-maintained. The hotel is welcoming to families, large groups, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Embassy Suites is a good hotel option if you are looking to mix with other travelers. They hold a reception every day so that guests can meet one another (and maybe go explore the city together). Their rooms also feature a shower/tub combination if you need to unwind after a long day of being out and about. While you are in the area, check out the Lewis & Clark Boathouse and Nature Center or go for a stroll and look at some of the historic buildings on the Lindenwood University campus.
The best thing to do on your visit to Clayton is get away from the bustle of city life. You can explore some of the art galleries and stores, such as Sasha's Wine Bar or the "How Sweet Is This" Itsy Bitsy Candy Shoppe. You can also check out the Historic Hanley house on a day of your visit.
Some of the best attractions in St Louis County are actually located in or around Clayton. The St Louis Zoo is a favorite for kids of all ages. You can also take a look at the free St Louis Art Museum. They house over 30,000 paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Grand Basin and the Art Hill are also located nearby. On a nice day, you can take in these sights with a walk along the Art Hill, followed by a stop into some of the nearby museums.
Outdoor days are also great for a visit to Shaw Park. This is a large park in the center of Clayton with plenty of open space and playgrounds for the kids. The Paul C Wehner Senior Memorial Park is another outdoor attraction of note. Lewis Park, Taylor Park, and Hanley Park are a few other parks that come to mind.
And, if you start craving the action again, St. Louis proper is only a stone's throw away. All in all, you should be looking forward to a comfortable visit to Clayton, MO.