Downtown Burien

In Downtown Burien, it’s all about diversity, destination and down-home charm.

Just minutes from the Puget Sound shoreline with a bustling shopping district and a lively community within walking distance, this neighborhood blends convenience, captivating views and character. “We’re a small community 10 minutes from Seattle, but a hidden jewel in the region,” says Debra George, Executive Director of Discover Burien and longtime resident. “We have that small-town neighborhood flair, and most people know everyone.” The alluring, dynamic neighborhood is filled with single-family, Mid-Century rambler-style houses, newly built townhomes, Cape Cods and bungalows. “We border the water, so a lot of them have beautiful views,” George says. “Many of the people have grown up there and raised their kids and passed on their house to their kids. It's cool to see the multi-generations coming up.” Most homes were built in the 1970s and range from $350,000 to $650,000, but there are a few homes that go for $1 million sprinkled in. Most homes have multi-car garages or detached spaces for workshops, expansive decks for entertaining and large windows letting in natural light. Some even have built-in outdoor stone fireplaces, BBQs and landscaped patios, perfect for hosting a neighborhood get-together. Adding to its storybook-like setting, yards are filled with raised garden beds brimming with plants and flowers and fig and cherry trees towering above. While it’s a quiet and calm neighborhood, residents are only a short walk from shopping, restaurants, a transit center and just five minutes from the Sea-Tac Airport. “We’re so close to Seattle, but we have kept more of a quaint downtown feel,” says George.

Local students attend Seahurst Elementary, Sylvester Middle and Highline High School. Seahurst offers after-school art and soccer classes, hosts an annual Oktoberfest 5k run and partners with Page 2 Books to raise funds for the school. Niche ranked Highline with a B- for college prep and sports. The diverse high school has baseball and football titles and offers clubs for drama, digital media and an Asian Student Union.

Inside Downtown Burien, enjoy the four-acre Dottie Harper Park. A canopy of Red Cedars, native Hardwood, firs and hemlocks shades this wooded space. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, hike the trails or let the kids play. At Lakeview Park, you can shoot hoops or bring your furry friend to play in the dog park. And Annex Park is a favorite for locals who can shred payment with its 7,400 square-foot skate park inside.

Within walking distance is Olde Burien, a charming historic shopping center uniquely defined by its whimsical metal crooked clock keeping the movers and shakers on time. Buzzing with entrepreneurs, kids playing, cyclists and creatives, this mom-and-pop district exudes main-street charm. In just four blocks, you can taste flavors from around the world, including Italian fare at Angelo’s of Burien, French pastries and baguettes from Bakery Noveau and late-night tacos at El Antojo. “Our downtown core offers over 36 restaurants, all independently owned,” George says. “Our city advertises it as a foodie paradise.” There are also several specialty food markets selling Micronesian and Ethiopian cuisine, along with two chocolatiers. This quaint historic district caters to your shopping needs with a convenience store, clothing and home goods boutiques, bookstore and pet groomer. For cultural attractions, head to the Highline Heritage Museum, Moshier Art Center or Burien Actor’s Theatre.

Small-town community initiatives are big here. With Burien Art Walk First Fridays, block parties, festivals and a year-round weekend farmer’s market in the Town Square, this is a community that's welcoming and united. George says she felt that as soon as she moved here 22 years ago, and even more so, once she joined Discover Burien and met the 21-person board. "I found my family and sense of place, and that's the feeling you get when you’re here," she says. "You’re part of a family.”

A vibrant community, thriving business district and flourishing food and culture scene await in Downtown Burien.

Written By

Amy David

Photography Contributed By

Landon Gauthier

Video By

Bill Jennings