The site of one of the worst fires in Los Angeles history is now its best place to have an outdoor BBQ. The art deco Pan-Pacific Auditorium was a Fairfax District landmark until it was destroyed by a spectacular fire in 1989. Instead of rebuilding the structure, city fathers turned the site into Pan-Pacific Park, with basketball courts, baseball diamonds, jungle gyms and rolling green hills great for running or walking your dog. Parking is super-easy in a big lot off Beverly Boulevard. Permanent charcoal grills dot the landscape, each with a picnic table and usually a shade tree or two. It's hardly ever overcrowded —  so spread out, bring some red cups and maybe a piñata. If the weather is bad or you need more shade, there's a covered canopy area with several grills of its own. —Isaac Simpson

7600 Beverly Blvd., Fairfax District, 90036. (323) 939-8874, laparks.org/dos/reccenter/facility/panPacificRC.htm.

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