Cave Creek Hotspots: The Best Dining, Adventures, and Your Dream Home
There’s something extra special about Arizona from November to April. With perfect weather, stunning desert landscapes, and some of the season’s biggest events, it’s easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with the lifestyle here. Whether you’re in town visiting family for the holidays or for the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, Spring Training, or Bike Week, you don’t have to look far to find adventure, relaxation, and a true taste of the Southwest.
One of the best-kept secrets? Cave Creek.
Just 30 minutes north of TPC Scottsdale, this charming town offers a totally different pace. While North Scottsdale is buzzing with action, Cave Creek provides a breath of fresh air—literally. With wide-open spaces, scenic hiking trails, unique shops, and incredible restaurants, it’s the perfect place to take a break from the crowds and experience Arizona’s rugged beauty.
Annual Events You Don’t Want to Miss
While none of these events take place in Cave Creek, they are close enough to add Cave Creek to your itinerary!
Christmas at the Princess (expected November 20, 2026-January 2, 2027) - A spectacular holiday festival at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess featuring millions of lights, an outdoor ice skating rink, the Princess Express Train, and photos with Santa.
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (January 23-31, 2027) – One of the most renowned car auctions in the world, featuring rare and exotic cars that attract enthusiasts and collectors from across the globe.
Waste Management Phoenix Open (February 8-14, 2027) – Golf’s biggest party may be over, but if you attended, you’ve already seen how electric the Scottsdale energy can be this time of year!
Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show (February 11-21, 2027) – A prestigious event featuring some of the world’s most beautiful Arabian horses, a must-see for equestrian enthusiasts.
Spring Training (Mid-February - Late March 2027) – A favorite of locals and baseball fans nationwide! Watch your favorite MLB teams warm up for the season at stadiums across the Valley.
Arizona Bike Week (March 31-April 4, 2027) – A high-energy, can’t-miss event with live music, custom motorcycles, stunt shows, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Must-Visit Spots in Cave Creek
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re all about the outdoors, then I recommend hiking Black Mountain, a short and steep climb with the best panoramic desert views. You can also explore the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Park with a variety of stunning trails to hike, ancient petroglyphs, and (seasonal) flowing water. Not one for walking? Then horseback riding at MTM Ranch with a tour through the Sonoran Desert provides the same scenic views while putting less mileage on your shoes.
Where to Eat & Drink
The dining options in Cave Creek are varied and cater to all, adventurous and otherwise. First, I recommend you stop by Roastery of Crave Creek to grab a bag of the best organic coffee in town. It’s a true small-town experience, as you can visit at any time of day and choose coffee from their “honor” box outside and simply Venmo them or slip cash in the window.
Then, on to your lunch or dinner options:
El Encanto – A charming and delicious Mexican restaurant with a stunning patio and a pond filled with ducks and turtles.
Big Earl’s Greasy Eats – Classic roadside burgers, fries, and shakes in a fun retro setting. Despite the “greasy eats” name, they actually serve all-natural, hormone-free meat and chicken.
Tonto Bar & Grill – Upscale dining with fresh, locally sourced ingredients at the historic Rancho Mañana–a former 1940s dude ranch now with gorgeous golf course views.
The Horny Toad – A Cave Creek staple since 1976, making it Cave Creek’s oldest restaurant, is a must if you love BBQ or fried chicken.
The Buffalo Chip Saloon – Another Cave Creek icon, the Buffalo Chip serves Texas-style BBQ but is known for much more than that. They have live music 5 nights per week, free line dance lessons on Tuesdays and Sundays at 7 pm, free couples dance lessons on Thursdays at 7 pm, and real bull riding every Wednesday and Friday evening!
Harold’s Cave Creek Corral – What began as the Corral Bar in 1935 and became Harold’s in 1950 is now a local landmark. From being the site of movie scenes to one of the biggest Steelers bars in the nation, it’s the place to be whether you want to enjoy a meal or a drink and live music. They have country swing dancing on Fridays, line dance lessons on Saturdays, and karaoke on Sundays.
Unique Shopping & Wellness Activities
If retail and relaxation are your keywords, then you must check out Rare Earth Gallery, my favorite shop, for its jaw-dropping collection of crystals, minerals, and gemstone art. Next on your list should be The Space, my recommendation for yoga, meditation, and self-care workshops. And, of course, there’s Frontier Town, an Old West-style shopping village with unique souvenirs and artisan crafts.
From Visitors to Residents: Relocating to Cave Creek
As one of the many Arizona “transplants,” I know firsthand how easy it is to fall in love when you visit. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home here—whether as a winter escape or a full-time residence—now is the perfect time to explore. And if you’re curious about what’s available in Cave Creek or elsewhere, I’d love to help. Why not take a look before you head back home? Let’s tour some properties and see if Arizona is calling your name, too.
If you’re seeking a neighborhood that offers both tranquility and ample space for creating lasting memories, these properties in Cave Creek are truly ones to consider. Reach out today for the opportunity to make it yours!
