Carefree, Arizona, a picturesque town situated in the Sonoran Desert, has long been known as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Its transformation from a celebrity playground to a world-class wellness destination reflects both its rich history and its modern evolution into CIVANA, a renowned resort celebrated for its cutting-edge spa and wellness offerings.
While Carefree recently marked its 40th year of incorporation, its origins trace back to the 1950s, when two Arizona developers—Thomas D. "Tom" Darlington and Kenyon Turner "K.T." Palmer—met at a Kiwanis luncheon and conceived the idea of a community offering a peaceful retreat from the stresses of city life. Their vision came to life when they secured 2,600 acres of land north of Scottsdale, purchasing the site for just $44,000. In 1955, Carefree Development Corporation was founded, laying the foundations for a leisure community.
The design of Carefree was far from casual. The partners aimed to create an exclusive retreat that would appeal to both the affluent and the artistic. The town was conceived as a haven for relaxation, with streets named to reflect its serene, laid-back ethos. Nonchalant Way, Ho Hum Road, Slumber Street, and Tranquility Lane were just a few examples of the streets that embodied the easy-going vibe of the community.
In 1963, the opening of the Desert Forest Inn (later rebranded as the Carefree Inn) marked a pivotal moment in Carefree's evolution into a premier resort destination. The hotel quickly became a hotspot for the affluent and famous, drawing celebrities in search of the next "Palm Springs." By this time, Carefree had already earned a reputation as a playground for stars like Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, and Dick Van Dyke. A standout attraction at the hotel was the Aqua Maids—women in one-piece bathing suits, considered daring for the era—who captivated guests with synchronized swimming performances.
By the late 1960s, Carefree had firmly established itself as a sought-after destination for both relaxation and luxury. In 1968, Arizona Film Commissioner Fred Graham opened Southwestern Studios, a 160-acre facility equipped with cutting-edge soundstages and production facilities. One of the first productions filmed there was The New Dick Van Dyke Show, starring Carefree resident Dick Van Dyke. The property was sold to a developer in 1999 and is now home to The Summit shopping center.
As the town of Carefree grew, it faced potential encroachment from the nearby city of Scottsdale. To preserve its independent identity, Carefree incorporated as a town in 1984, electing Merritt Bigelow as its first mayor. The town also adopted the motto “Carefree. Where the sun marks time,” a reflection of its laid-back, sun-drenched atmosphere.
Though Carefree had been defined by its luxurious resorts and tranquil lifestyle from the start, it wasn’t until 2017 that a new chapter began. The Carefree Resort and Conference Center, which had once been the crown jewel of the area, was rebranded as CIVANA and officially opened in March 2018 following a $50 million renovation. Founded by Adam Ross and Marc Skalla, CIVANA was created with a singular vision: to make wellness accessible to more people. The founders wanted to offer not just a wellness retreat but a place where individuals could explore self-growth, joy, and lasting well-being. Inspired by their own transformative experiences with wellness, Ross and Skalla sought to create a space that would cater to the modern traveler’s need for balance and rejuvenation.
The name "CIVANA" pays homage to the Hohokam Tribe, who once thrived in the Sonoran Desert during an era of prosperity known as "Civano." The Hohokam were remarkable for their ability to harness the desert’s resources, using sophisticated water canals to cultivate crops and medicinal plants to care for their communities. This deep connection to the land and the body is central to CIVANA’s philosophy, which emphasizes therapy through nature and the integration of mind-body wellness, much as the Hohokam practiced centuries ago.
The core philosophy at CIVANA is encapsulated by the motto "Happiness first, healthiness always." This guiding principle is more than just a slogan—it’s a reflection of the resort’s commitment to a zero-deprivation approach to wellness. Here, guests are encouraged to enjoy everything from mood-boosting experiences like the Aqua Therapy Circuit to a refreshing cocktail by the pool or a heart-pumping desert hike, all without guilt. The focus is on achieving balance, joy, and nourishment for both the body and the mind.
In keeping with its zero-deprivation philosophy, the resort offers a culinary experience that prioritizes nourishment over restriction. The menus at its two dining options, Terras and Seed, embrace a 'count colors, not calories' approach. Guests can enjoy plant-forward meals that celebrate local produce and Southwestern flavors, with dishes like the Hearth Roasted Artichoke appetizer at Terras, prepared in a hearth oven to bring out rich, seasonal flavors.”
In addition to healthy meals, CIVANA also offers a thoughtfully curated cocktail program that uses locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. The resort’s commitment to wellness is reflected in every aspect of the guest experience, including the carefully crafted drinks, which celebrate the unique flavors of the Southwest.
At CIVANA, wellness is a deeply personal journey, with over 100 customizable experiences designed to cater to the unique needs of each guest. Whether through yoga, mindfulness, strength training, or culinary classes, the resort encourages individuals to explore different paths to well-being, recognizing that wellness is not a destination but an ongoing process of self-discovery and growth. "We want our guests to leave feeling happier and healthier then when they arrived," says Julia Lavine, CIVANA's Chief Brand Officer. "Wellness shouldn’t be prescriptive. It should empower guests to define it for themselves, creating a life filled with happiness and joy." With a diverse range of offerings—from relaxing meditation sessions to invigorating yoga classes and hands-on cooking workshops—CIVANA ensures that every guest can find the practice that resonates with them. The goal is to help guests build lasting, joyful habits that continue to support their well-being long after their stay, reinforcing the belief that wellness is a dynamic and deeply personal experience. Beyond the resort, CIVANA provides practical tools and mindset shifts that guests can take home, integrating wellness practices into their daily lives. From strength training to science-backed workshops, each experience is crafted to foster growth in all areas of life—physical, mental, and emotional.
With its seamless blend of personalized wellness, a serene desert setting, and a focus on joy and balance, CIVANA is redefining the experience of true well-being. Guests leave feeling rejuvenated, equipped to carry that sense of energy and inner peace into their everyday lives. At its heart, Carefree has always been a haven for relaxation and leisure. The town’s tranquil, sun-drenched environment continues to provide the perfect backdrop for renewal. As the resort evolves, the spirit of Carefree remains unchanged—offering a retreat from the demands of daily life, where time slows beneath the desert sun and guests can reconnect with themselves amidst the peaceful landscape. Carefree’s legacy as a sanctuary for rest and revitalization endures, with CIVANA leading the way as the premier destination for wellness.
"We want our guests to leave feeling happier and healthier then when they arrived," says Julia Lavine, CIVANA's Chief Brand Officer.
MARNEY HENZE
Marney Henze is a full-time wellness guide who creates transformative spaces through yoga, meditation, sound therapy and journaling, helping individuals connect deeply with themselves. Her approach blends ancient practices with a modern, playful perspective, making wellness both accessible and relatable. She is passionate about helping others find balance, clarity, and joy in their lives. Learn more about Marney and her various wellness offerings by following her on Instagram @marney.henze