The Best Places to Shop in Carefree, Cave Creek and North Scottsdale, Arizona

In the Sedona Desert, Carefree, Cave Creek and North Scottsdale exist right outside of the larger and busier Phoenix and Scottsdale areas. If you’re already headed to the latter for some reason, the three former cities make an excellent side trip, especially if you want to experience Arizona culture away from all of the traveler-centric hubbub that exists in the larger metros.

While you’re there, experience the hiking and golf courses, ATV excursions and cactus gardens, but don’t forget to also do a bit of shopping. You’ll find loads of unique, indie boutiques that are the perfect spot to pick up something for someone special back home, or a souvenir for yourself.

To get you started, here are some of our favorite spots to shop in the Carefree, Cave Creek and North Scottsdale areas.

1. Glory Bees Unique Clothing & Accessories

In Cave Creek, Glory Bees offers a mixture of Southwest-inspired women’s and children’s clothing and accessories, from purses to shoes, t-shirts to dresses. You could stop by and purchase an entire outfit in one go — and everything is perfectly suited for a vacation exploring the beautiful Southwest.

2. Desert Treasures

In Carefree, Desert Treasures offers an array of real-life treasures, including minerals, crystals, jewelry and fossils. Stop by and take advantage of the staff’s all-things-minerals-and-crystals expertise to find the perfect pick for you.

3. Black Mountain Guitar Company

If you’re in the market for a new guitar, Black Mountain Guitar Company has you covered. Find acoustic, electric and bass guitars, plus ukuleles, amps and all the guitar accessories you could need. The store also offers in-house guitar repair and lessons.

4. Southwest Bedazzle Boutique

For youthful, fun fashion with a little bit of Southwest flair, head to Southwest Bedazzle Boutique. In addition to clothing, jewelry and accessories, the boutique also sells pet gifts and home decor. You’ll be sure to find something you just have to have, whether it’s a unique piece of art or a gorgeous piece of turquoise jewelry. Find something you love, but just can’t fit it in your suitcase? The boutique offers shipping.

5. Purse Impressions Charity Boutique

When you purchase a Purse Impressions bag or backpack, your shopping goes to a good cause — helping the business gift handbags and backpacks to women and men leaving rehabilitation centers following seeking help for addiction. In addition to shopping the boutique’s array of bags and jewelry, you can also make a donation, as Purse Impressions also accepts new and gently-used items for repurposing.

Need More?

But these five favs aren’t the only spots to shop in town! Check out the full list of recommended shopping stops to find more boutiques, jewelry stores, cigar shops and even specialty food providers.

Need other recommendations on what to do, where to stay and where to dine when visiting Cave Creek, Carefree or North Scottsdale? Check out our Discovery Map guide, available for free in both digital and print formats, for top tips on all this and more.