Sandwiched between the suburbs of Greece and Irondequoit, Charlotte lies along Lake Ontario and the Genesee River. It is the northern tip of the city of Rochester. Being so far from the city proper, it feels more like a seaside village than a city neighborhood. This is truer now more than ever, with recent improvements in lighting, landscaping and walkways throughout the business district.

The focal point of Charlotte is Ontario Beach Park, which lies at the end of Lake Avenue. It has a sandy beach with lifeguards on duty, a boardwalk and a fishing pier. Children love the historic carousel. The park’s shady lawn area is popular for grilling and picnicking; tables and shelters are available. Touring the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse and museum is a fun way to learn about Rochester’s nautical past. Take a drive along Beach Avenue to see some of Rochester’s nicest waterfront homes.

Nothing beats the beach on a warm summer night. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for free weekly concerts at the Performance Pavilion. Walk out on the fishing pier for an incredible sunset view, watch the boats return for the night—and top it all off with a custard treat.

Restaurants

Bars and restaurants in Charlotte draw the boat crowd for lunch, dinner and lively happy hours on outdoor decks. For steaks and seafood, try Gordon’s Steak and Crab House and Schooner’s Riverside Pub. You can find lighter fare at Leadbelly Landing, Scuttlebutt’s, Windjammers and Bellanca’s Portside Restaurant. Nola’s Waterfront Barbeque is a Cajun and barbecue establishment that brings in national musical acts. Pelican’s Nest Restaurant serves a wide range of American cuisine. Some restaurants in Charlotte have been in business for decades: Abbott’s Frozen Custard has scooped creamy cones in Charlotte since the 1920s. LDR Char Pit has served burgers and fries for nearly 60 years. And Mr. Dominic’s, an Italian restaurant, has earned destination status in its nearly 30-year run.

Main thoroughfare: Lake Avenue where it ends at the lake
Parking: Meters on Lake Avenue (free after 5) and free area lots

Bars

Leadbelly Landing: Decks, daily fish fry. 4776 Lake Ave.; 663-3210
Pelican’s Nest Restaurant: Hopping night scene; seasonal. 566 River St.; 663-5910
Penny Arcade: Live rock. 4785 Lake Ave.; 621-7625
Schooner’s Riverside Pub: Live music on the waterfront. 70 Pattonwood Drive; 342-8363
Windjammers: Beer and pub fare. 4695 Lake Ave.; 663-9691

Live music: Nola’s Waterfront Barbeque; Penny Arcade; Schooner’s Riverside Pub