At the northernmost tip of the city, the Genesee River borders the park to the east. Besides a sandy beach and spray park with plenty of parking, visitors can enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk and pier, indulge in the original 1902 Abbott’s Frozen Custard, ride the 1905 Dentzel Carousel, and tour the 1822 Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse. Enjoy a dozen bars and restaurants, some with waterfront seating, the Port of Rochester marina, a boardwalk, ample lot and street parking, and the best summer sunset views.
Ontario Beach Park Bathhouse, Beach, and Boardwalk
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The Pier and Port of Rochester
The Dentzel Carousel
Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse
The 1822 Genesee-Charlotte Lighthouse is the oldest active surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario and is located just a few blocks south on Lake Ave. Visitors wonder why the lighthouse is so far inland—where it stands now used to be a shoreline. When the lighthouse is open, visitors can climb to the top to look out over the lake and what used to be marshlands.
Food & Drink
Unlike other lakeside parks in the area, Ontario Beach Park offers a variety of refreshment options. Some have been in the area for decades, while others are new and already popular with locals and visitors alike.
Here are a few tried-and-true places to visit while in Charlotte: Hose 22, California Rollin, Abbot’s Frozen Custard, Mr. Dominic’s at the Lake, Windjammers, Vine and Tap, Whiskey River Pub and Grill, and Whiskey’s Upper Deck.
More information about Ontario Beach Park
For events, there are concerts by the shore in the gazebo, visiting ships, Harbor Fest, “Autumn on the Lake” during Roc the Riverway weekend, and fireworks on holidays.
Cost: Free
Located in the City of Rochester (get directions)
More information: cityofrochester.gov/portofrochester/
Explore More
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To find Rochester’s hidden sidewalk, start at Ontario Beach Park and head west on Beach Ave. The two entrances are across from Clematis and Cloverdale Streets.
On a hot day, you can stand under a waterfall, swim in a lake, or wade through a creek at one of these refreshing natural swimming holes
Explore The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail
Explore the Lake Ontario Seaway Trail along the southern shoreline, from Fort Niagara in Youngstown to Fort Ontario in Oswego.
Where is your favorite spot at Ontario Beach Park?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.
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Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
