The Scoop on Mad Martha’s
Mad Martha’s sits at 24 Union Street in Vineyard Haven on Martha’s Vineyard. Since 1971, this ice cream shop has been a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. In 2023, they moved to a bigger space with more seating but kept their old-school charm.
New Owners, Same Great Taste
In 2024, longtime manager Jim Shane teamed up with Brook Katzen (who owns other local spots) to buy the shop. They’re keeping the classic flavors while adding new options like dairy-free ice cream.
Flavors with Island Connections
Mad Martha’s ice cream shows off local ingredients and partnerships:
- Apple Fritter: Vanilla ice cream mixed with apple chunks and pieces from Back Door Donuts
- MV Sea Salt Caramel: Made with salt from Martha’s Vineyard shores
- Black Raspberry: A bright, tart favorite
- Lobster Ice Cream: A weird but famous treat with real lobster bits in vanilla ice cream
They now offer vegan and gluten-free options too.
Summer Rush
The shop is open from April to October. During summer, lines often stretch down the street, but the staff—local teens and seasonal workers—keep things moving.
The shop’s 2025 pricing reflects its premium ingredients and island location, with take-home options available for visitors wanting to enjoy flavors after leaving the Vineyard.
Part of Island Life
Mad Martha’s works with local farms and businesses. They sponsor the Martha’s Vineyard Sharks baseball team and create special flavors for games.
Families return year after year, often sharing stories about visits from decades ago. The shop kept its classic look and friendly staff that customers mention in reviews.
Some think the prices are high, but fans say the quality is worth it. Winter closures leave locals waiting for April, and summer crowds can get big despite the larger space.
Whether you grab a cone right after getting off the ferry or after a beach day, Mad Martha’s gives you a true taste of island life.