The small, quiet city by the Bay
Nestled in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, Union City has a small town feel in an area of big cities. Formed in 1959 in response to extensive growth in the Bay Area, the city sprang up in the middle of a large number of a regional parks and recreation areas, making it a playground of fresh air and outdoor activities. The city's large Filipino, Latino, and Chinese populations come together to create an intriguing food scene, and with a BART station right downtown, the big city is never more than a short ride away.
Chasing butterflies by the bay
Lose yourself in a cloud of butterflies at the Nectar Garden in Coyote Hills Regional Park -- they even host an Annual Butterfly & Bird Festival to celebrate the lovely creatures. The wildlife doesn't stop there. Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and reptiles just waiting to be discovered. Young and old alike will enjoy blowing off steam at Aqua Adventure Water Park. Be sure to stop for a solemn moment at the Bay Area Flight 93 Memorial, dedicated to the tragic flight that was San Francisco-bound on September 11.
Find your favorite green space and just kick back
For a city of less than 100,000 people, there's a surprising amount of parkland and recreation space. Bring your wheels when you head to your Union City vacation rental, because the best way to explore the city is on the 20 miles of flat bike paths that circle the area. Enjoy an idyllic picnic among the oak trees by Dry Creek Garden's picturesque cottage, dating from the early 1900s. Don't leave before you've checked out the narrow trails that wind through fields of flowers. If you'd rather eat indoors, there are plenty of ethnic eateries to choose from.
Soak up the California sun all year long
Packing for your Union City vacation rental shouldn't be too complicated, since the city generally sees just a 20-degree swing in temperatures throughout the year. The highs are usually in the 50s in the coldest months of December and January, and in the 70s from June to September, the warmest months of the year. Of course there can be extremes, so make sure you check the forecast before you leave. You can most likely leave your umbrella at home, though, because Union City sees annual rainfalls well below the national average.
Exploring the natural features in Union City
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to appreciate the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in Union City. Here are a few of the area's most stunning sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- San Francisco Bay (15.7 mi / 25.3 km)
- Fremont Central Park (5.4 mi / 8.7 km)
- Lake Elizabeth (5.5 mi / 8.8 km)
- Baylands Nature Preserve (9.9 mi / 15.9 km)
- Shoreline Park (11.5 mi / 18.5 km)
- Coyote Point Park (15.2 mi / 24.5 km)
How to get to and around Union City
The nearest airport is in Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), located 12.4 mi (19.9 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO), which is 18.9 mi (30.4 km) away.
Catch a ride on the metro at Union City Station to easily navigate the city.