One of the things I love most about living in Carefree and Cave Creek is that there is always something interesting to experience. From beautiful desert trails and Western traditions to locally owned restaurants and wellness destinations, our community truly offers something for everyone.
Here are ten of my favorite ways to enjoy Carefree and Cave Creek:
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Visit the Carefree Farmers Market
Start your Friday morning at the Carefree Farmers Market beneath the iconic Sundial. Shop for locally grown produce, fresh breads, specialty foods, unique gifts and artisan products while enjoying the friendly, small-town atmosphere. During September, the market is open Friday mornings from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. Carefree Farmers Market
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Walk Through the Carefree Desert Gardens
Take a relaxing walk through the beautiful Carefree Desert Gardens along Easy Street. The gardens showcase native desert plants, public art and the famous Carefree Sundial. They are free to visit and open throughout the year. Carefree Desert Gardens
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Explore Spur Cross Ranch
For some of the best Sonoran Desert scenery in the area, head to Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. You can hike, mountain bike or simply enjoy the saguaros, wildlife and mountain views. Go early, bring plenty of water and choose a trail that matches your ability.
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Experience the Desert on Horseback
If you really want to experience Cave Creek’s Western heritage, schedule a guided horseback ride near Spur Cross. Local outfitters offer rides for beginners as well as experienced riders, with trails winding through beautiful saguaro-filled desert and the foothills of the Tonto National Forest. Cave Creek Horseback Riding
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Recharge at We Believe Wellness Center
Spend an afternoon focusing on your health at We Believe Wellness Center in Carefree. Their natural wellness offerings include infrared sauna, cold plunge, red-light therapy and PEMF mats. It is a wonderful place to relax, recover and recharge. We Believe Wellness Center
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Enjoy Afternoon Tea at the English Rose Tea Room
Step into a completely different world at the English Rose Tea Room. With floral décor, chandeliers, traditional bone china, sandwiches, scones and desserts, it is one of Carefree’s most unique experiences. Reservations are recommended. English Rose Tea Room
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Have Dinner at Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse
Finish your day with dinner at Keeler’s in downtown Carefree. Whether you are looking for a great steak, seafood, cocktails or a relaxing evening on the rooftop patio, Keeler’s has become a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors. Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse
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Shop and Explore Frontier Town
Take a walk through Cave Creek’s historic Frontier Town and experience a taste of the Old West. Browse the locally owned shops for Western art, turquoise, clothing, gifts and Arizona souvenirs—and don’t forget to stop for a photograph by Boot Hill or the old gallows. Frontier Town
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Experience Bull Riding and Live Western Entertainment
Cave Creek comes alive at night. Watch live bull riding at the Buffalo Chip on Wednesday or Friday, listen to live music or try a little country dancing. It is an authentic Cave Creek experience that you simply won’t find in most communities. Buffalo Chip Bull Riding
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Play a Round of Golf at The Boulders
Enjoy one of Arizona’s most beautiful desert golf experiences at The Boulders. Its courses wind through dramatic rock formations, towering saguaros and incredible views of Black Mountain. The South Course is available to resort guests and daily-fee players. The Boulders Golf Club
Bonus seasonal stop: The Cave Creek Museum reopens in October and is a wonderful place to learn about our area’s mining, ranching, archaeological and pioneer history. Its Arizona Gold Mining Experience is especially worth seeing. Cave Creek Museum
These are just a few of the things that make Carefree and Cave Creek such wonderful places to visit—and an even better place to call home. Our combination of natural beauty, locally owned businesses, Western history and welcoming neighbors makes this community truly one of a kind.
I’m Toby Totten with The Totten Team, and I’ll see you next time on Toby Around Town!
