Things To Do
in Burien
Burien is a coastal suburb just south of Seattle with a friendly, neighborhood-focused atmosphere. It sits along Puget Sound, offering parks, waterfront views, and easy access to the airport and the city. The town boasts a diverse community and a growing dining scene that reflects its mix of cultures.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor spaces, local arts, and casual neighborhoods without the bustle of downtown Seattle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Burien Town Square, where you can enjoy a morning coffee at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the square to admire the unique sculptures and public art installations that reflect the community's culture. Don’t forget to check out the local shops and boutiques for unique finds and souvenirs.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head over to the Burien Historical Society Museum to learn about the rich history of the area. The museum offers a variety of exhibits that showcase Burien's past, from its founding to its development. Spend some time walking through the charming streets of downtown Burien, popping into art galleries and local craft shops.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the local eateries for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood or farm-to-table cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront at Burien's Three Tree Point, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a local brewery or wine bar.
Begin your beach day at Seahurst Park, where you can enjoy a morning walk along the sandy shores and take in the ocean breeze. The park offers beautiful trails that lead through lush forests and down to the beach, providing a peaceful start to your day. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy while listening to the sound of the waves.
In the afternoon, dive into water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding, available for rent at nearby facilities. Experience the thrill of exploring the coastline from the water, watching for local wildlife like seals and seabirds. After your water adventure, unwind on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying a leisurely lunch from one of the food trucks nearby.
As evening approaches, gather around a beach bonfire at Seahurst Park, where you can roast marshmallows and enjoy the warmth of the fire. Listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors. Finish your day with a sunset view that will leave you with lasting memories of the beauty of Burien.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-day public transit pass | $7-12 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport
- Diverse dining scene with many casual options
- Relaxed, family-friendly neighborhoods
- Good access to parks and waterfronts
- Limited nightlife compared to downtown Seattle
- Some areas can experience traffic around Sea-Tac
- Smaller hotel options than downtown Seattle
- Rainy winters may affect outdoor plans
Places to Visit in Burien
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterfront views, boats, and sunset reflections provide classic Puget Sound photography opportunities.
Vibrant storefronts and wall murals along SW 152nd Street create colorful street photography moments.
Paved greenspace with creekside overlooks; great for nature shots and seasonal wildlife.
Coastal bluff with sweeping Puget Sound vistas, especially dramatic at golden hour.
Food in Burien
Burien Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder featuring locally sourced salmon, often served with crusty bread at waterfront eateries.
Must-Try!
A fresh bowl with diced salmon, rice, avocado, sesame, and soy-based dressing—common at fusion spots in Olde Burien.
Grilled skewers with a glossy teriyaki glaze; a popular casual option near the marina.
Pan-seared cakes featuring local crab with citrus aioli, served at seafood-focused eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, prepared foods, and crafts in Olde Burien.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite, queue in order, and keep voices reasonable in quiet residential areas; offer to step aside for others on narrow sidewalks.
Respect personal space and leash laws in parks; clean up after pets and dispose of waste properly.
Safety
Tipping in Burien
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; at counters or for takeout, tipping is optional but appreciated for smaller staff roles.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still welcome, though some small venues favor electronic payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically dry and mild with long days; pack layers for cooler evenings and the possibility of coastal drizzle.
Showers become more frequent; foliage colors brighten trails and waterfront parks offer scenic photo opportunities.
Wet and relatively mild compared to inland areas; rain gear is essential and outdoor activities shift to coastal strolls and indoor venues.
Mild temperatures return with blooming gardens and markets reopening; great for al fresco dining and walking tours.
Burien at Night
Hiking in Burien
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, mostly flat trail through creeks and parklands, suitable for easy hikes and bike rides.
Coastal bluff walks with Puget Sound views, ideal for sunset strolls.
Airports
How to reach Burien by plane.
Major international gateway about 7–15 miles north of Burien; accessible by car, rideshare, and public transit.
A smaller airport serving general aviation, located near Tukwila; not used for commercial passenger service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of White, Asian, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Pacific Islander and immigrant groups contributing to a multicultural neighborhood landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Active amateur and youth programs with games and practices in local parks.
Indoor and outdoor courts with community leagues and pickup games.
Several courses within a short drive offer scenic Puget Sound views and varied terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burien.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian bowls, salads, and pasta dishes; most menus can accommodate dairy-free and egg-free requests with advance notice.