CRESTON,  located along highway 34, was founded in 1868 as a railroad town. As the county seat, Creston is a popular town for industry, and has been named, "The Shopping Center of Southwestern Iowa." The historic train depot still stands in downtown Creston, where it is used as a city office building, senior citizen meal site and a small railroad museum. The Union County Historical Society hosts an historical village in McKinley Park. The village can be toured daily from 1-5 throughout the summer months, or other times by appointment. Please call 641-782-8159.
 
 

  AFTON, the community that meets you, greets you, and treats you on the square is located at the intersection of highways 169 and 34 in the center of Union County. A city park provides recreation in the middle of the business district. Stop here for a unique shopping experience. The town square hosts a gift shop, The Afton Star Enterprise, The First National bank; Farmer's Cooperative, gasoline stations, and several other stores and restaurants.
 

  LORIMOR, 7 miles north of Highway 34 on 169, is located in the northeast corner of Union County. A manufacturing firm and an active church and business community assure the continued success of Lorimor. While in Lorimor, be sure to stop by the little Happy Valley Miniature Church. The "doll congregation" is carefully dressed in hand-made costumes.
 

  CROMWELL,  5 miles west of Creston, was founded in 1868. Originally designated as the division point for the railroad, but because of a shortage of water, this did not materialize. Today Cromwell is mostly a residential community.
 

  ARISPE, 6 miles south of Afton on 169, is the birthplace of H.R. Gross – "Watchdog of the US House".  A nice roadside park is provided for picnicking. The annual Arispe Hog Roast is held each year on the last Saturday in August.
 

  SHANNON CITY,  located 2 miles west of Highway 169 on the Ringgold and Union County line. Shannon City was originally in Ringgold County until a fire forced the relocation to the north in Union County. Today, Shannon City is largely residential.
 

    THAYER, is located on the eastern edge of Union County along Highway 34. This little town, like most rural towns, was once a hub of activity, thriving on its location next to the railroad. Stop for a picnic near the lake.