In a business combination achieved in stages, this element represents the amount of gain or loss recognized by the entity as a result of re-measuring to fair value the equity interest in the acquiree it held before the business combination. Also includes the difference between the carrying value and the sales price for consolidated investment property and equity method investments.

No definition available.

Name:	spg_AcquisitionOfControllingInterestSaleOrDisposalOfAssetsAndInterestsInUnconsolidatedEntitiesGainOrLoss
Namespace Prefix:	spg_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Gains On Issuances Of Stock By Equity Method Investees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Real Estate Joint Ventures and Investments
Gain upon acquisition of controlling interests and sale or disposal of assets and interests in unconsolidated entities, net		$ 84,553	$ 250,516	$ 158,308
Klepierre \| Europe
Real Estate Joint Ventures and Investments
Gain upon acquisition of controlling interests and sale or disposal of assets and interests in unconsolidated entities, net	$ 206,900		$ 206,900