In Missouri, it is against the law for a milkman to run while on duty. I guess it's the state's way of making sure your milk is not shaken or stirred. Because really, milkshakes should only be of the ice cream variety.
Union, Missouri, is a great little place to live, especially if you want a mixture of both the quiet life and the hustle and bustle of a city. When this town was first annexed back in the early 1800s, it was a highly political and sought after place -- thus the name Union came into play. When you drive around Union, you'll see little bits and pieces of the past in the surrounding architecture and some of homes that are still standing from these times. Overall, the area is very green (in color not in lifestyle), so most of the locals are out and about throughout the day. With a population topping 10,000, it's almost impossible not to get to know your neighbors.
Moving to Union
If moving to Union is in the cards for you, take a second to pat yourself on the back for picking such a highly desirable place to live. Lots of people are drawn to Union, so finding an apartment here might be hard -- since they are in such high demand. The good news is that there are a wide variety of properties to choose from, so there's guaranteed to be a property to suit your needs.
Many of the apartment complexes have swimming pools, which is great news for those who like to be outside in the hot summer months. There are also multiple condos for rent in the area and some of them also contain swimming pools. Whether you're looking for a house rental or one bedroom apartments, you'll need to get out and survey the area to see what part of Union is ideal for you.
But before you do, make sure you have a number of things at the ready. First, be sure to have your ID and social security card -- if you don't have an ID, bring another form of legal and acceptable identification. Second, have a deposit and application fee ready; it is perfectly normal for apartment complexes and realty management companies to run credit checks on potential applicants, and you will most likely be charged for this service. Third, bring some words from some people who like you Okay, you don't have to drag Grandma Joan along with you to your viewing, but you will need to bring her contact details (if she's your reference). Make it a rule of thumb to provide at least four references for the rental apartments to contact. Fourth, know where you've lived and bring the details with you. This includes address and the years you lived here. Make sure to get in touch with previous landlords -- the new apartment complex management will want to contact them as a reference and to check your rent worthiness. And finally, bring proof of employment and income. Contact the apartments to see what they'd accept, but as a rule of thumb they generally want to see some form proof of income like a bank statement, hire letter or most recent three pay stubs. If you are self-employed, you should bring along proof such as a profit and loss statement or tax return.
Neighborhoods in Union
Well, the good news is that there aren't any neighborhoods located within Union. In fact, you don't need any. This is one of the best places to be if you don't want nosy neighbors or the pollution of multiple names on signs in your city. While there are no real neighborhoods within Union, some locals may refer to their "area" of Union by the name of the main streets that run through the area.
But to get a better idea of the town, Route 50 runs right through it, from west to east -- or east to west, however you like it. Most restaurants and shops are going to be right off the 50, while a few are to the western side of town. If you like to be close to amenities, find yourself a place near the 50.
Living in Union
Well if you weren't already convinced to move to Union, here are a few more things to consider:
Plenty of Parks
If you really do love the outdoors, you'll love it here. Union is also a furry friend's oasis. Most of the parks in Union are located in the northernmost point of the neighborhood, near to Washington. Many of these parks double up as recreational centers, so you can take a jog in the sun before heading in and getting a few rounds of volleyball, tennis or baseball. The most notable parks here are Union Park Baseball Fields, Clark Vitt Park and Union Park Sand and Volleyball Courts.
Near to the Missouri River
Missouri River is an awesome place to fish, boat and swim, if you're willing to get bitten by a few angry crabs.
Plenty of Wildlife
Yes, wildlife. Union is surrounded by multiple conservation areas, so the area is teeming with exotic birds, deer and lizards. Hey, who knows, you might even spot Bigfoot. Spend a day at Robertsville State Park or River 'Round Conversation area and see what you find.
Getting Around
Getting around Union is easy. Although many of the residents have cars, they are dead set against the use of them. (Think of them as huge lawn ornaments.) Just kidding. But really, why would you want to drive in such a lovely area. Union is highly bikeable and walkable and the town is actually in the process of making it even more so with their latest Walkable Community Plan.
If you can't stand the thought of running your new shoes into the ground by walking around the city, why not take the public transit? The Metro runs through this area and in fact, right though St.Louis -- which is great news for those who need to commute to the city to work.