One of the best things about small-town Missouri life is the fact that there are many small towns with unique downtowns. And Clinton's downtown has been named one of the best in small-town Missouri.

What struck me about the Clinton Main Street experience. Aside from the great open-faced roast beef sandwich at Square 109, was how busy the square was.

Only In Your State recently rated the seven best small town downtowns, and Clinton, Missouri made the list. Only In Your State characterizes Clinton this way:

Once upon a time, just about every American town had a darling Main Street that was the heartbeat of the action. That's still the way it is in Clinton, a gorgeous town with a Victorian feel. In addition to the Henry County Museum, the town that's straight from an 1800s' photograph is brimming with shops and restaurants.

That's a pretty accurate description. Over the summer I experienced downtown Clinton for the first time and I was immediately impressed. A friend of mine and me went to Square 109 Restaurant & Bar on a Friday afternoon.

What struck me about the Clinton Main Street experience. Aside from the great open-faced roast beef sandwich at Square 109, was how busy the square was. And it wasn't just people going to lawyers' offices or "office like" businesses that operate nine to five that populate many small-town main streets. They were people shopping, eating, hanging out with friends. People enjoying downtown Clinton. On a Friday afternoon, in the middle of May.

If you're looking to do a little exploration in your own backyard and haven't yet checked out Clinton, I think you should. And if it's been a while since you've been there. Maybe it's time for another visit.

Clinton is home to Missouri's biggest Fourth of July celebration, Olde Glory Days, which takes place in the downtown square and throughout the town. And each holiday season Clinton's Historic Downtown square is lit up for the holidays complete with a magic tree.

You can learn more about Clinton at the City's website.

Our Visit to Lolly's Candy Store in Sedalia

What to do on a sleepy Monday afternoon when you don't want to work? Check out the vintage candy store and satisfy that sweet tooth. Lolly's Candy Store is located at 702 S. Ohio, in Sedalia. Their Facebook page says they're open 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM CST Monday - Saturday and 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM CST Sunday.

19 Things You Say Sedalia Needs

I recently asked the question, what doesn't Sedalia need any more of? While the overall tenor of the conversation determined that Sedalia didn't need any more fast food places or gas stations. The conversation soon turned to what people want in Sedalia. And among the items were a couple of fast food places, restaurants, and entertainment options. Here are 19 things you told us you want in Sedalia.

More From AM 1050 KSIS