When I lived in Venice, I commuted to Korea Town (Wilshire / Western) that same way. I'd cut over to Bollona Creek to avoid at least the first part of Venice. At the end, it drops you off about block south of Washington (at National I think?). It does add some distance from Venice, but no lights once you get on the path, which is nice.

I don't know a great way downtown from there other than Venice / Washington though.

Welcome on board.