Pension and Postretirement Benefits (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Funded Plans [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	$ 4,724	$ 4,092
Funded Plans [Member] | Non Current Liabilities [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	4,724	4,092
Unfunded Pension Plans [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	11,570	10,883
Unfunded Pension Plans [Member] | Other current liabilities [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	816	717
Unfunded Pension Plans [Member] | Non Current Liabilities [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	10,754	10,166
Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	17,304	16,549
Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member] | Other current liabilities [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	392	440
Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member] | Non Current Liabilities [Member]
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	$ 16,912	$ 16,109