


Center of Clayton
About
Center of Clayton is a versatile community hub that keeps families active year-round with something for every age. From youth sports leagues and energetic gym time to engaging summer camps and family fitness classes, this well-maintained facility offers a welcoming alternative to traditional playgrounds, especially during hot summers or chilly winters when indoor fun is a must.
Highlights
- ✓Indoor gymnasium perfect for rainy or extreme weather days
- ✓Year-round youth sports leagues including basketball, volleyball, and floor hockey
- ✓Comprehensive summer camp programs with themed weeks and activities
- ✓Family fitness classes that let parents and kids exercise together
- ✓Birthday party packages and special event hosting for memorable celebrations
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekday mornings (right when they open at 5:15 AM during the week) for the quietest gym access before after-school crowds arrive.
- 2.Check their online calendar before visiting,special family events and open gym times fill up quickly and may require advance registration.
- 3.Bring water bottles and athletic shoes for all family members, as many programs require closed-toe shoes on the gym floor.
- 4.Summer camp registration opens early in the year and popular weeks sell out fast, so plan ahead if you're counting on childcare coverage.
- 5.Parking is convenient with a dedicated lot on-site, but weekday evenings (5-7 PM) can be busier when leagues and classes overlap.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mid-mornings (9 AM-12 PM) or weekend mornings are ideal for families with younger children, as these times are less crowded and coincide with open gym or family programming hours. Saturday mornings are particularly popular for recreational sports leagues if your kids are enrolled.
What to Know
Membership or day-pass fees apply for facility use,check their website for current rates and program-specific costs. The center is accessible and offers ample free parking on-site, though bringing your own snacks and water is recommended as food options are limited.
Seasonal Notes
The center operates year-round with extended hours during the school year (weekdays until 9 PM). Summer camps run June through August and require early registration. Holiday hours may be modified, especially around major holidays, so check ahead for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's closures.
Nearby Eats
Head to Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant (just 5 minutes away) for adventurous eaters who love eating with their hands, or swing by Almondine Bakery & Cafe for kid-friendly sandwiches, pastries, and smoothies in a casual atmosphere perfect for post-activity refueling.
More Activities Near Clayton
Endangered Wolf Center
The Endangered Wolf Center offers families a rare opportunity to observe and learn about critically endangered wolf species and other wild canids in a natural setting. This non-profit wildlife refuge combines education with conservation, giving kids an up-close look at these magnificent animals through guided tours and educational programs that make wildlife conservation come alive.
Shaw Park
Shaw Park is Clayton's crown jewel for family fun, offering something for every age across its beautifully maintained grounds. From the popular aquatic center with splash features to multiple playgrounds, tennis courts, and scenic walking paths, this park delivers endless entertainment options. Parents love the variety of year-round festivals and events that make every season special.
Centene Community Ice Center
The Centene Community Ice Center is a top-notch ice skating facility that welcomes families year-round with dedicated public skate sessions and family-friendly skating times. With its excellent 4.7-star rating from over 660 reviews, this spacious complex offers everything from casual recreational skating to structured lessons, making it perfect whether your kids are first-timers wobbling on the ice or aspiring figure skaters and hockey players.
Clayton Farm and Community Market
This charming Saturday morning farmers market offers families a delightful community experience with fresh local produce, homemade baked goods, and live music that creates a festive atmosphere. Kids love sampling treats from various vendors, picking out colorful fruits and vegetables, and enjoying the open-air, stroller-friendly market setting in downtown Clayton.