Founded in the 1870s, Cave Creek attracted early settlers that wanted peace and solitude; the town is still proud of its Western atmosphere. Bed and breakfasts follow the same course, using historic buildings with modern amenities added. Local restaurants like the Horny Toad and Crazy Ed's Satisfied Frog serve food, humor and Western ambiance in equal proportions. The recently acquired 2,100-acre Spur Cross Ranch with its archaeological treasures and lush vegetation will become a regional park; some hikes are scheduled in the interim. Several stables offer horseback rides into the adjacent Continental Mountains, which also feature both single and double-track bike trails for all skill levels. The Cave Creek Museum displays the town's history, including Indian artifacts and pottery, cowboy memorabilia from the Old West, and items from the gold rush days.

Cave Creek's neighbor Carefree offers world-class resort living and shopping. Situated at the base of a huge pile of rocks reaching a height of 250 feet, The Boulders resort was rated the top resort in America by readers of Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report. Two Jay Morrish 18-hole championship golf courses require teeing off on top of a boulder (if a coyote picks up your ball and carries it off, you get to drop a ball and play it). Serving guests are five restaurants, including the Latilla, with its glass walls and classic American cuisine. The adjacent Old Morocco-style El Pedregal Festival Marketplace is populated with art galleries and shops, including the Heard Museum North, the only extension of Phoenix's world-famous museum. Another well-known resort is Carefree Conference Resort, which offers golf, guided bicycle tours and jeep and Hummer tours. The centrally located Spanish Village includes attractive boutiques and galleries.