Island History in a Cone
Mad Martha’s started in 1971 and sits at 7 North Water Street in Edgartown. The shop got its name from a story about a woman named Martha who turned frozen cream into something wonderful. Now it’s one of the must-visit places on Martha’s Vineyard, with shops in Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven too.
In 2024, they became the official ice cream for the Martha’s Vineyard Sharks baseball team, showing how much the town loves them.
Flavors with Local Roots
The shop makes ice cream that celebrates what makes the island special:
- Apple Fritter: Vanilla ice cream mixed with cinnamon apples and pieces of donuts from Back Door Donuts in Oak Bluffs
- MV Sea Salt Caramel: Creamy caramel with salt collected from the island’s beaches
- Black Raspberry: A bright, tart flavor that hits the right sweet spot
- Menemsha Mint Oreo: Fresh mint ice cream packed with Oreo chunks, named after a local fishing village
Their generous scoops are known for being worth every penny, with take-home options available for those wanting to enjoy the flavors off-island.
Summer Rush, Island Style
Mad Martha’s opens from April to October. Lines can get long in summer, but you’ll usually wait just 12 minutes even during busy times. They’re open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, perfect for after-beach treats or evening walks.
The shop sits close to Edgartown Harbor and the ferry, making it an easy stop. They have wheelchair-friendly seating and take credit cards and phone payments.
More Than Just Dessert
Ice cream here is part of the island experience. As one customer said, “Ice cream is a ‘thing’ on the Vineyard… waiters expect you to skip dessert because they know you’re heading to Mad Martha’s.”
The shop works with local businesses like Martha’s Vineyard Sea Salt and Back Door Donuts to keep things local.
Families come back year after year, and the old-school signs and picnic tables keep the feel of the past alive. Staff members like Maria are known for being extra friendly.
While some visitors have opinions about value and style, most agree it’s part of what makes a trip to the island complete.