Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burien, Washington, to Auburn, Washington
Driving from Burien, Washington, to Auburn, Washington, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. The drive is relatively straightforward, with mostly residential areas and commercial districts along the way. However, there are plenty of hidden gems that can make this short drive more exciting. Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Burien, Washington, to Auburn, Washington.
SeaTac, WA - The Halfway Point
If you're looking for a place to stretch your legs and grab a bite halfway through your drive, SeaTac, WA, is the perfect spot. Located just south of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, SeaTac is an excellent destination for a quick stopover. There are plenty of restaurants that cater to different tastes, from fast-food joints to sit-down restaurants. If you're feeling adventurous, you could try some local delicacies, such as the fresh salmon, at any of the seafood restaurants.
1. Angle Lake Park
Located in SeaTac, Angle Lake Park is a hidden oasis in the middle of an urban jungle. The park has a beach, a playground, and a picnic area. Visitors can rent paddle boats, kayaks, and paddleboards from the park office and spend a lazy afternoon on the lake. The park has plenty of parking, and admission is free. Visitors could grab some take-out from any of the restaurants in SeaTac and enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Favorite Food: Grab some fish and chips from Jack's Fish Spot in Downtown Seattle on your way to the park.
2. Foster Island
Foster Island is a small island located in the middle of Lake Washington, just off the 520 bridge. The island is an excellent destination for nature lovers and bird watchers. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the island's trails, which are surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the lake. The island is home to a vast variety of birds, from Great Blue Herons to American Goldfinches, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.
Favorite Food: Stop by the Whole Foods Market in Bellevue to grab some snacks for a picnic on the island.
3. Kubota Garden
Located in the Rainier Beach neighborhood, Kubota Garden is a stunning 20-acre Japanese garden nestled in the heart of the city. The garden was created by Fujitaro Kubota, who emigrated from Japan to the United States in the early 1900s. The garden features a waterfall, a pond, and several bridges and trails that lead visitors through the lush gardens, dotted with Japanese maples, rhododendrons, and azaleas. Visitors should take time to explore the garden's various nooks and crannies, which offer stunning views of the garden.
Favorite Food: Grab some sushi rolls from Mashiko Japanese Cuisine & Bar in West Seattle for a picnic in the garden.
4. Hops N Drops
Hops N Drops is a local chain of restaurants that specialize in burgers and craft beer. The restaurant's menu features an extensive array of burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, with plenty of vegetarian options. If you're a beer lover, Hops N Drops has an excellent selection of local and regional craft beers on tap. The ambiance at the restaurant is inviting and laid-back, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite and relax.
Favorite Food: Order the Mushroom Swiss Burger with a side of sweet potato fries and pair it with a pint of Georgetown Brewing's Manny's Pale Ale.
5. Auburn Riverside Park
If you're looking for an active getaway, Auburn Riverside Park is a great destination. The park features several athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts, a walking trail, and a playground. Visitors can rent equipment to play baseball, soccer, and other sports from the park office. The park also has plenty of picnic tables and barbecue pits, making it an excellent spot for a family outing or a group gathering.
Favorite Food: Pick up some barbecue from The Longhouse Texaco & BBQ in Auburn and enjoy a picnic at the park.
In conclusion, a short drive from Burien, Washington, to Auburn, Washington, can be transformed into an exciting adventure by making stops at unexpected places. From hidden beaches to lush gardens to local BBQ joints, this drive has so much to offer. So, next time you're heading south, take the time to explore these hidden gems. You won't be disappointed!