The Dentzel Carousel is one of only 14 operating antique carousels of its kind remaining in the United States.
The park's lighthouse, built in 1822, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The carousel was originally installed at the park in 1905 and has been restored to preserve its hand-carved wooden animals.
The Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse, located nearby, is the oldest surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario.
The beach at this park is one of the few natural freshwater swimming beaches in the Great Lakes region.
Ontario Beach Park is a 39-acre public space located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York. The park is home to the Dentzel Menagerie Carousel, an antique ride dating back to 1905 that features hand-carved animals. Visitors have access to a sandy swimming beach, a long concrete pier, and a harbor lighthouse. The grounds include multiple covered shelters, playgrounds, and basketball courts. It serves as a focal point for the Charlotte neighborhood, bordering the Genesee River where it meets the lake. The park maintains public boat launches and fishing access points. During the warmer months, the area hosts community concerts and large-scale public events.
The end of the pier looking back toward the park with the lighthouse in the frame.
Walk the full length of the pier to see the lighthouse up close and observe maritime traffic entering the Genesee River.
Check the local water quality reports online before planning a swimming excursion.
Bring light layers, as lake breezes can make temperatures significantly cooler than in downtown Rochester.
Do not swim outside of designated lifeguard-patrolled areas or when red flags indicate high surf conditions.
The carousel and swimming areas operate on a seasonal basis, typically from late spring through early autumn.
No glass containers on the beach, keep pets on leashes, and dispose of waste in provided bins to protect local water quality.
