While nearby Cave Creek was built more than 110 years ago by miners and ranchers attracted by the gold rush and the seclusion near Black Mountain, Carefree, Arizona is a result of increased urban growth throughout the Valley of the Sun. Known primarily as a resort and residential enclave, Carefree is also home to a thriving arts community and numerous cultural attractions. Desert Artists, Inc. nurtures area artists and galleries and conducts numerous art shows and exhibits throughout the year. The Sonoran desert and foothills are a natural backdrop for a variety of art mediums.
In addition to the Giant Sundial, the Foothills Community Theater and the Cave Creek Museum offer other interesting diversions. The Boulders residential subdivision features "El Pedregal, a festival marketplace," which hosts concerts throughout the summer months. Located about 10 miles from Carefree is the Cave Creek Mistress Mine, an authentic, old-fashioned 1883 gold mine rich with history of the gold rush era. Bartlett Lake, the Cave Creek Recreation Area and the Tonto National Forest Campground offer safe, enjoyable hiking, boating, water-skiing and fishing. Other popular attractions in the Carefree-Phoenix area include Tonto Hills and its giant Kachina, the Heard Museum North and Taliesin West and the Arizona home and architectural school of Frank Lloyd Wright.
In addition to the Giant Sundial, the Foothills Community Theater and the Cave Creek Museum offer other interesting diversions. The Boulders residential subdivision features "El Pedregal, a festival marketplace," which hosts concerts throughout the summer months. Located about 10 miles from Carefree is the Cave Creek Mistress Mine, an authentic, old-fashioned 1883 gold mine rich with history of the gold rush era. Bartlett Lake, the Cave Creek Recreation Area and the Tonto National Forest Campground offer safe, enjoyable hiking, boating, water-skiing and fishing. Other popular attractions in the Carefree-Phoenix area include Tonto Hills and its giant Kachina, the Heard Museum North and Taliesin West and the Arizona home and architectural school of Frank Lloyd Wright.