Everything to know about PBS Documentaries before signing up
Everything to know about PBS Documentaries before signing up
Explore a massive collection of thought-provoking documentaries, including exclusive films from Ken Burns.
Sometimes I like taking a break from all my scripted shows to watch something a little different - and PBS Documentaries delivers just that. Drawing on a legacy spanning more than 50 years, this service curates a library of thought-provoking documentary films and series covering everything from history and nature to culture, science, and technology. Whether you’re a casual doc fan or just eager to learn something new about the world, PBS Documentaries offers an inspiring mix of content that both entertains and enlightens, making it the perfect antidote to everyday TV drama. Here’s everything you need to know about PBS Documentaries.
Everything you need to know about PBS Documentaries
What is PBS Documentaries?
If you love getting lost in fascinating stories and learning something new along the way, PBS Documentaries is worth checking out. Unlike other streaming services that mix in reality shows and blockbuster movies, this one is all about high-quality, in-depth documentaries – many of them exclusive to the platform. Whether you’re into history, nature, science, culture, politics, social issues, or stories from around the world, it’s packed with eye-opening content that makes you think. And the content won’t just teach you something - it will have you starting conversations and taking action as you see the world in a new way. If you love learning deeply about the world, there are few better streaming services to scratch that itch of curiosity.
One thing that makes PBS Documentaries unique is its collection of films by legendary filmmaker Ken Burns. His deep-dive historical series, like “The Civil War” and “Jazz,” are all available here. If you’ve ever wanted to truly understand a moment in history, Burns’ work is the gold standard - thoughtful, detailed, and beautifully told. Having access to his entire catalog in one place is a rare find and a huge draw for history lovers.
PBS Documentaries
Get access to the past 50 years of documentaries with the Amazon Prime Video add-on channel, PBS Documentaries. The ad-free streaming service provides over 1,000 hours of programming, which is mainly PBS’s original documentary films and television shows and features.
How much does PBS Documentaries cost?
PBS Documentaries costs $5 per month when you add it as a channel on Prime Video. That’s how we recommend adding it just because you get a seven-day free trial so you can see if you like the content before committing. Plus, it integrates easily into your current streaming setup, provides you offline downloads, and shows zero ads.
What popular shows can you watch on PBS Documentaries?
There are plenty of important, thought-provoking documentaries on PBS Documentaries, and “Great Migrations: A People on the Move” is one of the standouts. If you’re curious about how migration has shaped culture and society, this show is a must-watch. It explores the waves of Black Americans moving north and then back south over the years, while also connecting those journeys to modern immigration stories from Africa and the Caribbean. It’s eye-opening and powerful, giving you a new perspective on how movement has shaped identity and community in America.
For anyone fascinated by brilliant minds that shaped the world, “Leonardo da Vinci” is a must-watch. This two-part documentary from Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon takes a deep dive into the life of the ultimate Renaissance man, exploring how his genius spanned art, science, and engineering. Through breathtaking visuals of his masterpieces and insights from his detailed notebooks, the film paints a vivid picture of da Vinci’s boundless imagination and intellect. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or just someone who’s endlessly curious, this series offers an inspiring look at one of the greatest thinkers in history.
If you’ve ever wondered about the stories hidden in your family tree, “Finding Your Roots” is the perfect place to start. Hosted by renowned scholar Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr., this fascinating series uses genealogy and DNA analysis to uncover incredible family histories. Each episode dives deep into the lives of a diverse group of guests, revealing surprising connections and personal stories that transcend borders. It’s not just about discovering where you come from - it’s about understanding how those roots connect us all in unexpected ways.
Anyone who loves the outdoors or has ever been inspired by America’s stunning landscapes needs to check out “Ken Burns: The National Parks - America’s Best Idea.” This Emmy-winning series takes you on a breathtaking journey through the nation’s most iconic parks, celebrating both their natural beauty and the people who fought to preserve them. From Yellowstone to Yosemite, each episode dives into the history and stories behind these treasured places, reminding us why they’re worth protecting. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the parks and the idea that they belong to everyone, offering a sense of wonder and pride for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Switching gears a little from history to medicine (though they are intrinsically linked!), there’s the documentary “The Cancer Detectives.” This film tells the gripping story of the first-ever fight against cervical cancer, led by a coalition of groundbreaking thinkers and dedicated caregivers. From Dr. George Papanicolaou, whose research changed women’s healthcare forever, to Dr. Helen Dickens, a trailblazing African American OBGYN, the documentary highlights the incredible teamwork and innovation that saved lives. It’s a compelling look at how science and determination can come together to tackle even the most daunting challenges.
Celebrating food, stories, and culture from across the country, “The Great American Recipe” is a heartwarming competition that brings together eight talented home cooks. The latest season, set in Nashville, Tennessee, highlights personal recipes and the unique culinary traditions that inspire them. Each week, the contestants face themed challenges, showcasing their creativity and skill through dishes that reflect their roots. It’s a feel-good series that combines friendly competition with the joy of sharing meals and the stories behind them, making it perfect for food lovers who enjoy a side of heart with their cooking shows.
Finally, for any surf fans out there, “Surf Nation” takes you to the beaches of Hainan, China’s southernmost province, where young athletes as young as 9 train rigorously as part of the Chinese National Surf Team. Following two standout surfers, Alex (17) and Lolo (22), over two years, the film dives into their relentless pursuit of excellence, the sacrifices they’ve made, and the intense pressure they face to succeed. Beyond the waves, it’s a story of ambition, resilience, and the growing surf culture in China, offering a unique perspective on a sport traditionally dominated by the West.
If you want to know what else is on PBS Documentaries, check out their channel page on Prime Video. You’ll get to browse all their TV shows, and when you sign up, you’ll get a seven-day free trial to see if you like it.
What platforms can you use to watch PBS Documentaries?
PBS Documentaries is available on Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TV, iPhone/iPad, Android Phone/Tablet, Mac, Windows, PlayStation, Xbox, LG Smart TV, Samsung Smart TV, Sony Smart TV, and VIZIO Smart TV.