It’s one of the most instantly-recognizable and popular thoroughfares in modern civilization, referenced countless times in motion pictures, music, and art – right up there with New York City’s Park Avenue. It’s also one of the oldest routes in the San Fernando Valley, conceived initially as part of the El Camino Real (the trail between Spanish missions). It was recognized as U.S. Route 101 (U.S. 101) before the freeway – which parallels it for much of the Boulevard’s length – was built, even being previously signed as U.S. Route 101 Business (or U.S. 101 Bus).

We’re talking about Ventura Boulevard, of course. Next to the other standout addresses like Hollywood Boulevard and the Las Vegas Strip, this 18-mile-long stretch of contiguous businesses – the world’s longest – remains a teeming center of housing, mini-malls, shops, specialty businesses, schools, and other establishments. Within the Woodland Hills limits, Ventura Boulevard connects Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, and Tarzana, with plenty to do, see and experience along the way.

In this Woodland Hills Magazine roundup, we’re going to highlight some spots not to be missed on the most famous of avenues, from art centers and libraries to cocktail lounges and wine experiences.

Art Departure, boasting roots on legendary Ventura Boulevard, but now in a new location at 23233 Saticoy Street #113 in West Hills, is the place for families who enjoy creating art together, offering creative classes for kids and adults of all abilities and skill levels. Proprietor Jaye Weiner proclaims art means different things to different people, and as such, all of us can benefit, one way or another, from taking time to use our hands, get a little dirty and be creative. Marketed to customers as a full gallery and studio experience for artists of all ages and abilities, Art Departure focuses on creativity and personal growth through the wonderful medium of artmaking. Stop by and see what the folks here are up to with new classes, a handmade and vintage gallery, and a great new neighborhood.

Woodland Hills Branch Library, located at 22200 Ventura, is part of the Los Angeles Public Library system and offers a variety of special events for people of all ages, including story time for the little ones, teen council meetings (11 and up), and more. The library is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesday and Thursday from 12 noon to 8 pm, and Friday from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm. This place presents a clean, quiet space to focus on anything from homework to finding the latest Tom Clancy thriller. Often called the best Los Angeles Public Library location in the West Valley, the Woodland Hills Branch boasts beautiful architecture with a quaint vibe – and plenty of free parking and Wi-Fi.

Ceremony, located at 11814 Ventura in Studio City, is a vibrant, art-laden bistro and bar offering specialty cocktails and creative Mexican-style small plates and remains as an all you can ask for in a pub with TVs, a jukebox, and a charming outdoor patio. It’s a great spot to catch a Warriors or Rams game or to just grab drinks with friends – speaking of which, you really need to try Ceremony’s Spicy Mule, which always gets the job done for cocktail aficionados looking for something different. With tons of beer on tap and an appealing SoCal vibe, you can head to Ceremony’s back deck and kill a whole day before you even realize it.

The Attic, located at 14633 Ventura in Sherman Oaks, is a hidden gem on the famous avenue, beckoning amidst its dim lighting, mirrored walls, and dramatic red couches. This speakeasy-inspired bar and lounge serves up unique craft cocktails that pay equal tribute to classic and modern sensibilities, and the experience of sitting beneath The Attic’s iconic brick archway bar is a must for any first-time patron. Choose from an exclusive cocktail menu or leave it up to one of the expert mixologists to concoct a personalized drink tailored to your spirit preference. With an eclectic selection of small appetizers, fine whiskeys, bourbons, gins, and other specialized spirits, The Attic offers a curated bar menu with something to satisfy everyone.

Woodland Hills Wine Company, located at 22622 Ventura, was founded in 1978 by Paul and Carol Smith when it was originally known as Northridge Hills Liquor. It eventually moved to its current address in Woodland Hills in 1998 and became WHWC. Over the many years of being in business, the company has developed strong relationships with wineries in California and across the world’s most important wine-growing regions, resulting in access to many of the globe’s great wines. Along with a seasoned staff, Woodland Hills Wine Company developed an industry-leading website so that they can be open for business 24/7. The goal of its current owners is to provide every customer with the best wine shopping experience possible – whether it be in-person, on the phone, or online.

Running 18 miles long, the world-famous Ventura Boulevard connects Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, and Woodland Hills. It remains as the longest avenue of mom-and-pop businesses, all while presenting a great reason for you to hit the road and explore them.