Acquisition of Businesses - Unaudited Pro Forma (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 973,039	$ 1,027,107	$ 956,570
Depreciation and amortization	28,697	31,131	30,648
Segment operating income	45,919	41,859	28,602
Income from continuing operations	20,444	5,269	10,674
Net income attributable to Viad	$ 21,572	$ 5,893	$ 11,125
Diluted net income per share	$ 1.06	$ 0.29	$ 0.45
Basic net income per share	$ 1.06	$ 0.29	$ 0.45