Imaginative exhibits and outdoor reconstructions vividly recount two centuries of Irish emigration at this great museum. The tour begins with the Emigrants Exhibition in which personal stories and historical records recall the two major strands of emigration from the 1700s-1900s. All of which give visitors an indepth background before they head outdoors to the reconstructed buildings of 18th Century Ireland - known as the Old World.

One of the highlights is the Mellon Homestead around which the Folk Park is based. Still in its original location, the cottage was built by Andrew Mellon, father of Thomas who went on to become a judge and founder of America's powerful Mellon Bank that's still going strong to this day. In 1877, aged 64, Mellon made a sentimental return journey to his boyhood home.

19th Century Ulster Street brings together original Victorian shop fronts, including a chemists, printer and pub. Pop inside and chat to the costumed guides who act out their roles with accuracy and enthusiasm. After a bit of shop-talk comes the serious business of emigration as Ulster Street leads down to the eerily impressive Ship and Dockside Gallery.

Belfast, Newry and Derry were Ulster's main embarkation points for America, and all three are brought together in this imaginatively reconstructed setting. Book your passage then board the replica ship to learn more about the arduous journey west.

The New World begins with America Street, again with reconstructed shop fronts in keeping with 19th Century ports such as Boston and Baltimore. Follow the Mellon family's progress with a visit to replicas of their first Log Cabin and more spacious Pennsylvania Log Farmhouse.

With a gift shop, cafe and thirty indoor and outdoor exhibits - including the Centre for Migration Studies - we recommend you take a full day to explore this unique and informative attraction.