Burien
Burien was originally called “Sunnydale” because its first major landowner likened the area to a “sunny dale”. However, later on, German-born Gottlieb Van Boorian arrived in Sunnydale and built a cabin on the southeastern edge of the lake. He is crediting with founding the town of Burien, named after himself. The lake was also named Lake Burien. In 1993, the city was incorporated.
Residents of the city see their community as a friendly city with an up-an-coming business district and a homey, small town atmosphere. Burien is also home to the Northwest Symphony Orchestra and the city's 172-acre Seahurst Park draws visitors from throughout the region.
The city has recently spent energy expanding and improving parks and adding recreational and cultural events. Burien offers a full calendar of events visitors and residents, including a Christmas Cabaret, an annual Strawberry Festival, a fall pottery sale and a park concert series.