The city was originally founded by homesteaders, who settled along Puget Sound and the shores of the lake.

In the early 20th century, Lake Burien became a popular summer vacation destination for those living in nearby Seattle.

The Highland Park and Lake Burien Railway, constructed in 1912, spurred further development of the area.

Lakefront property owners have pushed back against these claims, arguing that public access will hurt water quality.

[6] In 2023, a group of residents petitioned the city to buy land from the Ruth Dykeman Children's Center to create a lakefront park.