Constructed in 1822, this lighthouse is the oldest surviving active lighthouse in America on Lake Ontario. To reach the 12-foot-high lantern room, visitors must climb a tight 40-foot-high spiral staircase, followed by an 11-rung ladder, and then crawl through an opening in the ceiling. The view from the top is worth the effort. The lighthouse is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. through October. New for 2024, two displays funded by a New York State Archives grant include a virtual lighthouse tower tour for those unable to climb and the wheel from the Tug Florence Yates, which was bequeathed by Ben O’Brien and brought by his relatives.
Upcoming Event
Roc the Riverway Weekend, October 4–6, 2024, highlights the Genesee River’s natural beauty, historical significance, and plans for its future. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for an early-fall outdoor experience, each event provides an opportunity to better know Rochester’s amazing river. Check out my favorite events!
According to lighthousefriends.org:
“In 1804, President Thomas Jefferson decreed that the seventy-mile stretch extending along the southern shore of Lake Ontario from Oak Orchard to Sodus Bay would become an official port district, centered at the juncture of Genesee River and the lake. Ships entering the port were originally guided by either a torch on a large pilot tree or a lamp atop one of the region’s early hotels.
“Even with the lighthouse, the sandbars at the marshy river entrance proved troublesome to ship traffic. To remedy this, a pair of 2,600-foot-long piers, spaced about 360 feet apart, was built at the river’s mouth in 1829. As land filled in around the piers, the entrance to the river essentially shifted northward, away from the lighthouse, and other lighting options for the port were considered.”
Learn of the fascinating story of how the Charlotte community rallied to save the lighthouse from destruction when the Federal Government abandoned it in the 1980s.
You can climb the tower
Be warned: It is a tight, 40-foot-high spiral staircase. Then, you climb an 11-rung ladder, and once to the top, you crawl through an opening in the ceiling to access the 12-foot-high lantern room. It’s toasty up there in the summer, but the view of Lake Ontario, the Genesee River, and Ontario Beach Park is extraordinary.
The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about telling the light’s story. A small museum is located in the lighthouse keeper’s home.
Lighthouse Trail and Overlook Project
If you head back, you’ll find a trail connecting with Lake Ave. The light is also a stop along the Great Lakes Seaway Trail.
More information about Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse
Cost: Admission fee
Located in Rochester
More information: geneseelighthouse.org
Explore More
9 Lake Ontario Lighthouses in New York
These lighthouses along Lake Ontario in New York are within a two-hour drive of Rochester. And where there’s a light there’s a sweeping view!
Besides a sandy Lake Ontario beach with ample parking, visitors can enjoy the carousel, pier, lighthouse, and Abbott’s Frozen Custard.
Turning Point Park’s most striking feature is a 3,572-foot-long boardwalk over the Genesee River Turning Basin.
At Genesee Valley Park, the river merges with the Erie Canal and continues north through Rochester before reaching Lake Ontario.
Explore The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail
The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail runs along the southern Lake Ontario shoreline, from Fort Niagara in Youngstown to Fort Ontario in Oswego.
Have you visited the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse?
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People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
