A Perfect October Day: Fall in Helena, Montana 

As the seasons change and there’s a crisp bite in the air, Montana streets are dressed in pumpkin oranges and vibrant golds. October in Montana is the perfect blend of outdoor fun, local festivals, and cozy comforts, making it a great time to explore Helena, Montana’s capital city! From savoring a real pumpkin spice latte to strolling through the historic walking mall, this guide highlights the best of Helena’s fall activities in the area.

To help you make the most of your autumn adventure, we’ve put together the perfect fall itinerary for a day in Helena, packed with local favorites and seasonal highlights!

Morning: A Seasonal Treat from a Local Coffee Shop

As we started planning our perfect fall day, we decided that a Pumpkin Spice Latte would be the way to kick off the morning – no reason not to fall into those clichés. As we started looking at the various coffee shops in town (of which there are many) we found two stand outs that were promoting PSLs made with REAL pumpkin – Florence Coffee Co. and 1889 Coffeehouse! We chose the FloCo drive thru (they also have locations in Butte) this trip, but you can’t go wrong with either decision. 1889 is the clear choice if you are looking for breakfast or baked goods.

If a real pumpkin spice latte isn’t what you’re looking for there are a variety of other great coffee shop options! Depending on where you are in town, give Moose Junction, Fire Tower Coffee, the General Mercantile, Scenic Brew or the Hub a try.

Late Morning: Visit a Montana Pumpkin Patch or Corn Maze

At the center of our fun-filled fall adventure was the pumpkin patch! When it comes to pumpkin patches and corn mazes, there are a handful of options within easy driving distance of town. This time, we had the privilege of visiting the pumpkin patch hosted by Johnson’s Nursery. This patch is open for two weekends each fall. They offer the quintessential fall experience with farm-grown pumpkins for your picking, fresh baked goods, family friendly activities and incredible décor!

If you aren’t able to make it to Johnson’s, you can still get your fall fix at Edgewater Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Townsend, Montana or visit Applestem Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Craig, Montana – both of which are within an hour’s drive of Helena.

Afternoon: Explore Helena’s Walking Mall

After your morning adventures, take a leisurely stroll down Helena’s historic Walking Mall. This pedestrian-friendly street is a hub for boutique shopping, art galleries, and some of the best local watering holes and restaurants in the area. There’s plenty to see and do, such as:

Boutique Shopping: The Walking Mall is home to several unique boutiques where you can find one-of-a-kind treasures, from locally made crafts to fashionable clothing and Montana-inspired gifts. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or picking up souvenirs, there’s something for everyone.

Art Galleries: As you explore, make sure to stop by one of the art galleries featuring works by local and regional artists. These galleries offer a glimpse into the creative spirit of Montana, with pieces ranging from traditional Western art to contemporary works.

• Holter Museum of Art; Ghost Art Gallery; Bray Gallery; Mountain Sage Gallery; among others.

Watering Holes, Sweet Treats, and Restaurants: If you’re in the mood for a drink, the Walking Mall has some fantastic options. Ten Mile Creek Brewing is a local favorite, offering a rotating selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Enjoy a carefully curated selection of wines and beers in the cozy atmosphere of The Hawthorne. There are also plenty of restaurant options offering quick snacks and tasty meals in the area. If the kids are along, don’t miss a trip to The Big Dipper for ice cream! This time of year, they have a delicious lineup of fall flavors.

**Check business hours before heading downtown, there are quite a few shops and galleries that are closed on Sundays.

A Special Fall Shoutout: The Painted Pot

For a fun and creative family-friendly activity, head over to The Painted Pot, a paint-your-own-pottery studio. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon with the kids or a way to create something special, this activity is perfect! And can be uniquely fall-themed if you see fit. If you’re spending a little extra time in Helena or have friends in town who can pick up your creations about five days later, it’s a wonderful way to make lasting memories and souvenirs.

Evening: Dinner at the Union by the Old Salt Co-Op

End your perfect fall day with dinner at The Union, a farm-to-table restaurant run by the Old Salt Co-Op. This dining experience is all about Montana’s rich food culture, showcasing a seasonal menu that changes with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving a hearty steak or exploring unique sides, The Union’s attention to quality makes every meal special.

Their à la carte menu gives you the freedom to build your perfect meal. From personal experience, the summer squash bomba rice side was an absolute standout—rich, flavorful, and perfectly prepared. Paired with a glass of red wine, the steak was tender and cooked to perfection, highlighting the care the chefs take with each dish.

For dessert, don’t miss the “cup of s’mores”—a delightful blend of creamy and sweet, capturing that perfect nostalgic campfire flavor. To finish, we savored the moment with an individual french press coffee, adding a warm and cozy note to the evening.

From sipping a real pumpkin spice latte to indulging in a farm-to-table dinner, Helena offers a quintessential fall experience that combines outdoor adventure with cozy, local charm. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant shops on the Walking Mall, creating your own pottery at The Painted Pot, or enjoying a festive day at a pumpkin patch, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate October in Montana’s capital. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of fall in Helena—it’s a day you won’t soon forget!