Charlotte - Rochester, NY Area Guide

Oliver Phelps and Nathaniel Gorham purchased the land now called Charlotte from the Seneca Indians in 1788. Construction sparked in the early 19th century. The landmark Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse was built in 1822. Train and trolley lines were built throughout the 19th century. The area became a popular vacation destination in the late 19th century. The city of Rochester annexed Charlotte in 1914.

Locals love to visit the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse. It costs just $3 to climb to the top of this 200-year-old lighthouse. Visitors may also join in on a tour to hear about the lighthouse's history. The house adjacent to the lighthouse has a small museum showcasing historic artificats.

Many events take place throughout the year in Charlotte, particularly in the spring and summer. Ontario Beach Park has concerts by the shore and big band series.

The majority of the restaurants in Charlotte carry either fine American dining, typical beach food (burgers and hot dogs) or seafood. However, some more diverse options exist for families and those looking for a fun night on the town. Hose 22 serves fine American fare in a historic former fire station. The restaurant carries an impressive array of wine and beer to accompany its dishes. These dishes include speciality burgers and pizzas as well as steaks and pastas. The large menu means that everyone will likely find something to enjoy here. Locals rave about the Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Mr. Dominic's at the Lake serves classic Italian cuisine right on Lake Ontario. Grab some of the outside seating available during the summer months for scenic views. The food here is simple red-sauce fare, but the fantastic chefs make this spot one of the best places to get Italian food in all of Rochester. Customers enjoy the Chicken French, which is egg-battered and then cooked in sherry wine sauce. Other popular menu items include the prime rib and the gnocchi for those with wide-ranging tastes. Bars make up the bulk of nightlife options in Charlotte. Visit Windjammers Bar and Grill for a typical American bar experience. Windjammers has a decent selection of popular domestic and imported beers, pool tables and darts. The wings and burgers tend to be the most popular menu items here.

You need a car to get around Charlotte, as you do in just about every other neighborhood of Rochester. If you don't have your own vehicle, it's usually best to call ahead of time to arrange a cab or Uber. Rochester has public buses but they don't cover much distance and they run infrequently. They also aren't always reliable, and Rochester's often-frigid winter temperatures mean you likely won't want to wait too long. Public transportation makes up for in price what it lacks in convenience, though; you can catch a one-way bus in the area for just $1 or purchase an all-day pass for $3.

During the summer months, residents may run into trouble parking around the lake area due to crowds. However, as Charlotte lies outside the city proper, parking generally isn't too much of an issue. Homes come with driveways or garages or both so streets are often free of parked cars.

Though Charlotte lies on the outskirts of the city, residents still have easy access to highways and expressways. For instance, residents can easily travel along the Lake Ontario State Parkway, which runs parallel to the southern shore of Lake Ontario. New York State Route 390 intersects at Charlotte with the Lake Ontario State Parkway.

The neighborhood tends to be walkable, as sidewalks line most streets. Charlotte cyclists will enjoy using the Genesee River Trail, which goes from Rochester to Charlotte. Charlotte has a small population with little traffic (especially during the off-peak season) so cyclists may find the roads conducive to cycling.

Ontario Beach Park truly has something for everyone to enjoy. Families love taking their children on the antique carousel while couples enjoy taking a walk down the romantic pier. Everyone enjoys the live concerts and events that take place during the summer months. Athletes take advantage of the numerous volleyball and pickle ball courts supplied at the park. Boating and swimming on Lake Ontario are permitted, but dogs should not be brought to this park.

Living in Rochester costs much less than living in the New York City metropolitan area. Prices in Charlotte tend to be even lower than the prices in downtown Rochester. For instance, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Charlotte lies around $752. More central, affluent areas of Rochester often cost at least $100 more.

Dining out is inexpensive in Charlotte. A typical beer sets you back $5 or less and you can find plenty of meals for under $10.

Unfortunately, New York state has some of the highest gas prices in the country. The price of gas in Charlotte costs about the same as the reset of Rochester. The price sits around 28% higher than the national average.

No major shopping areas exist in Charlotte proper. Instead, residents rely on small local shops or drive to more populated areas of greater Rochester.

Drive less than 10 miles to reach The Mall at Greece Ridge. This mall has over 140 stores such as Macy's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Chico's and more. The style of the mall is a little dated but the convenience and abundance of shops makes it a popular retail option for many Charlotte locals.

Comic fans from all over the Rochester area make the trek to All Heroes Comics. Comic fans come here for the fair prices and great selection of comic books. The store also sells comic book collectibles.

Charlotte Furniture and Appliance has served the Rochester area since the early 20th century. Locals choose to purchase their home goods here because of the great prices on their products, installation services and extended warranties.

Shop at Wegman's for all your grocery needs. What was once a small family-run shop in Rochester has become one of the premier grocery chains across the Northeast. Shop at Wegman's for fantastic deals, fresh produce and an abundance of ready-made meals.

The Irondequoit Farmers' Market opens on Thursday evenings from 4 to 8 p.m. The market season lasts from Memorial Day weekend to the end of September. The market has live entertainment every week. Produce makes up the bulk of items to purchase here.