With all the beautiful weather in Clayton lately, it’s time to start thinking about how to spend those upcoming Spring days. Here’s one way to spend a day in and around Clayton — feel free to complete the day in its entirety, or just pick out your favorite parts.

 

8:00 a.m., Shaw Park

Spend the morning enjoying all Shaw Park has to offer. Go for a leisurely walk around the lakes, kick around a ball in the soccer fields, or work up a sweat in the outdoor resistance gym. Bring the kids too — with two playgrounds on its 48-acre lot, Shaw Park is fun for the whole family.

 

10:00 a.m., brunch on Maryland Ave

Just a few blocks from Shaw Park, Maryland Avenue is known for its cute, inexpensive, local fare. Enjoy a rich brunch at Half & Half, or head up the street to First Watch. Wherever you eat, you can be sure to run into a few neighbors and enjoy some delicious food.

 

12:00 p.m., afternoon in Forest Park

Next door to Clayton is the magnificent Forest Park. After brunch, head over to take advantage of everything inside — it’s far more than just a park. More than twice the size of New York’s Central Park, Forest Park contains a world-class zoo, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the St. Louis History Museum — all of which are free to enter and enjoy. It’s easy to spend a day in Forest Park enjoying the beautiful lakes, restaurants, boating, and, of course, the free museums. Did I mention, it’s all free?

 

3:00 p.m., spa treatments at The Ritz-Carlton

Treat yourself with some relaxation! The Ritz-Carlton at Carondelet Plaza has a beautiful spa with a wide variety of treatments to make you feel like a new person after walking around all day. They recommend a Missouri Red Rock Massage, Missouri Black Walnut Massage, or a Nourished Body Glow Exfoliation.

 

6:00 p.m., dinner and drinks with Clayton’s finest fair

Finish off the perfect day tasting food from some of St. Louis’ best restaurants. In the mood for an award-winning dish? Sardella Osteria’s chef, Gerard Craft, is a James Beard Award winner for the Best Chef in the Midwest. If you’d rather have a quick bite of comfort food, try Sauce on the Side. Their fresh take on a wholesome calzone is not to be missed.