Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Net amount recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Funded Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	$ 4,814	$ 2,563
Funded Plans | Other current liabilities
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	0	0
Funded Plans | Non Current Liabilities
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	4,814	2,563
Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	11,127	10,536
Unfunded Pension Plans | Other current liabilities
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	635	713
Unfunded Pension Plans | Non Current Liabilities
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	10,492	9,823
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	16,235	16,399
US Postretirement Benefit Plans | Other current liabilities
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	1,094	928
US Postretirement Benefit Plans | Non Current Liabilities
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	$ 15,141	$ 15,471