Introduction: Ultraschall and Munich’s Techno Legacy

Ultraschall is widely recognized as a cornerstone of Munich’s electronic music scene, shaping the city’s nightlife from its opening in 1994 until its closure in 2003. Emerging from the early 1990s "Ultraworld" parties, Ultraschall was Munich’s first dedicated techno club and quickly became an incubator for electronic music innovation. Though the original venues have since been demolished or repurposed, Ultraschall’s influence continues to resonate through Munich’s vibrant club culture, particularly at successor venues like Harry Klein and Rote Sonne.

For visitors seeking to explore this chapter of cultural history, Munich offers a tapestry of experiences: from the redeveloped Werksviertel district—formerly home to Ultraschall’s second location—to a thriving nightlife scene and rich array of historical and artistic landmarks. This guide brings together historical background, practical visitor tips, and resources to help you discover Munich’s electronic music heritage.

Origins and Early Years

Ultraschall’s story begins with the monthly "Ultraworld" parties at Kulturstation Oberföhring in the early 1990s. Inspired by the rise of techno in Berlin, these pioneering events created a dedicated space for electronic music enthusiasts in Munich. Their popularity paved the way for a permanent venue—Ultraschall.

The Club at Munich-Riem Airport (Ultraschall I)

On June 17, 1994, Ultraschall opened in the former canteen kitchen of the decommissioned Munich-Riem Airport. Founded by Peter Wacha (Upstart), David Süss, and Dorothea Zenker, it featured a futuristic aesthetic, with white tiled interiors and props from the film "The High Crusade." This creative environment fostered a new era for Munich’s nightlife, drawing legendary DJs like Jeff Mills, DJ Hell, and Monika Kruse.

Cultural Impact

Ultraschall rapidly became the epicenter of Munich’s electronic music community. Its open-minded ethos and innovative programming helped define the city’s club culture, positioning Munich as a peer to Berlin in techno creativity. The club’s commitment to inclusivity attracted a diverse crowd and nurtured local talent, many of whom became internationally recognized.

Move to Kunstpark Ost (Ultraschall II)

When redevelopment forced the closure of Ultraschall I in 1996, the club relocated to the former Pfanni factory at Kunstpark Ost. Ultraschall II maintained the original’s avant-garde atmosphere and expanded its reach, serving as a major nightlife destination in Munich until its closure in 2003 due to further redevelopment of the site.

Closure and Legacy

Ultraschall permanently closed on January 31, 2003. Though the original club spaces no longer exist, its spirit lives on at clubs like Harry Klein and Rote Sonne—both founded by Ultraschall alumni—as well as through periodic exhibitions and features in museums such as Münchner Stadtmuseum. The Werksviertel district, now a creative hub, occupies the former Kunstpark Ost site.

Visiting Ultraschall Today

Is Ultraschall Open to Visitors?

No, Ultraschall is no longer operational. Both original club locations have been demolished or repurposed, and there are no official visiting hours or tickets available for Ultraschall itself.

Experiencing Munich’s Techno Scene

While Ultraschall cannot be visited, its legacy thrives in the city’s current nightlife:

Harry Klein Established by former Ultraschall team members in 2003, Harry Klein is renowned for its audio-visual experiences and cutting-edge line-ups. For events, opening hours, and tickets, visit the Harry Klein official website.
Rote Sonne Opened in 2005 and located at Sonnenstraße 15, Rote Sonne continues the tradition of electronic innovation. Find schedules and ticket information at the Rote Sonne website.

Werksviertel District The redeveloped site of Kunstpark Ost, now a cultural and creative hub with event spaces, restaurants, and public art installations.
Kulturstation Oberföhring The birthplace of the Ultraworld parties, significant in Munich’s electronic music history.
Münchner Stadtmuseum Frequently hosts exhibitions on club culture, including memorabilia from Ultraschall (Münchner Stadtmuseum).
Other Notable Attractions Marienplatz, the English Garden, and the Deutsches Museum offer a broader cultural context.

Travel and Accessibility Tips

Public Transport Munich’s U-Bahn and S-Bahn provide efficient access to nightlife and historical districts. Key areas like Ostbahnhof (for Werksviertel) and Sonnenstraße (for Harry Klein and Rote Sonne) are easily reached.
Accessibility Modern clubs and museums generally offer accessible facilities. Always check directly with venues for the latest information.
Best Time to Visit Munich’s nightlife peaks on weekends. Check club and museum websites for event schedules and ticketing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I visit the original Ultraschall club today?
A: No, Ultraschall closed in 2003 and its venues have been demolished. Successor clubs like Harry Klein and Rote Sonne carry on its legacy.

Q: Are there tours or exhibitions about Ultraschall?
A: No regular guided tours focus solely on Ultraschall, but museums such as Münchner Stadtmuseum occasionally feature exhibitions on Munich’s club culture.

Q: How can I experience Munich’s techno scene today?
A: Visit clubs such as Harry Klein and Rote Sonne, explore the Werksviertel cultural district, and attend electronic music events and festivals.

Q: Is public transportation available to reach these venues?
A: Yes, Munich’s extensive public transit makes it easy to access nightlife districts and historical sites.

Map Highlighting former Ultraschall locations (Munich-Riem Airport and Kunstpark Ost) and current techno venues (Harry Klein, Rote Sonne) for orientation.

For additional visuals, explore online archives and Red Bull Music Academy’s feature on Ultraschall.

Listen to the full story in the app

Your personal curator