Segment Information Balance Sheet Data (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012 segment	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable operating segments (in reportable segments)	4
Total Assets	$ 2,833,667	$ 2,733,995
Entertainment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	1,765,830	1,710,750
Education
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	328,535	286,115
Recreation
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	377,105	343,408
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	290,898	317,259
Corporate / Unallocated
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	$ 71,299	$ 76,463