<DefinitionAndReference>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockPremiumAmortization">
    <definition>The sum of the periodic adjustments of the differences between Preferred Stock's face value and purchase prices that are charged against earnings. This is called amortization if the Preferred Stock was purchased at premium.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairmentNumberOfNonRetailRealEstateAssets">
    <definition>The number of non-retail real estate assets for which the entity recognized impairment charges against an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsTenantReceivablesAndAccruedRevenueNet">
    <definition>The amount of tenant receivables and accrued revenue, net, acquired in a business combination.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AccountsPayableAccruedExpensesIntangiblesAndDeferredRevenues">
    <definition>The summation of accounts payable, accrued expenses, intangibles, and deferred revenues.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NetIncomeLossExcludingAmountAttributableToPreferredInterestsInOperatingPartnership">
    <definition>The net income (loss), excluding the amount attributable to Preferred Interests in Operating Partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInFiveYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfPropertiesSold">
    <definition>The number of properties which were sold.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ImpairmentCharge">
    <definition>The charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of all assets, except investment in unconsolidated entities, from their carrying value to their fair value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityFeeBasisPoints">
    <definition>The number of basis points added to the reference rate as a facility fee on the line of credit.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotesReceivableRelatedParties">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredUnitsPreferredPartnersCapitalAccounts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAverageUsefulLife">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeAverageVariableInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConsolidatedPartiallyOwnedPropertiesNumber">
    <definition>The number of properties that are less than wholly-owned, but which are controlled by the entity or for which the entity is the primary beneficiary.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfLandParcelsWrittenDown">
    <definition>Following an acquisition, the number of land parcels written down.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NoncontrollingInterestsAndTemporaryEquityPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes the accounting policy for noncontrolling interests and temporary equity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeLowerRangeLimit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentWeightedAverageCostPerShare">
    <definition>The weighted average cost per share of investments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConversionOfPreferredUnitsToLimitedPartnerUnits">
    <definition>The conversion of Preferred Units to Limited Partner Units.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of transactions with related parties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConversionOfClassCStock">
    <definition>The number of shares upon the conversion of Class C stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Land">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_SegmentReportingNumberOfReportableSegments">
    <definition>The number of reportable segments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NotesReceivableRelatedPartyReferenceRate">
    <definition>The reference rate for the variable rate of a note receivable such as LIBOR or the US Treasury rate.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentEntityOwnershipPartnersEquity">
    <definition>This item represents the disclosure of the entity's share of the partners' equity of the investment accounted for using the equity method investment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_StockIssuedToCommonShareholdersAndLimitedPartners">
    <definition>The value of stock and units issued to Common Shareholders and Limited Partners.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_TemporaryEquityRedemptionPriceEvaluationPeriod">
    <definition>The number of trading days for which the closing price of the stock is evaluated in order to determine whether redemption of the temporary equity may occur.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherMinorityInterests">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfForeignCurrencyDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InternationalJointVentureProperties">
    <definition>The number of properties owned via an International joint venture.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BasisOfPresentationAndConsolidationDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policy regarding (1) the principles it follows in consolidating or combining the separate financial statements, including the principles followed in determining the inclusion or exclusion of subsidiaries or other entities in the consolidated or combined financial statements and (2) its treatment of interests (for example common stock, a partnership interest or other means of exerting influence) in other entities, for example consolidation or use of the equity or cost methods of accounting. An entity also may describe its accounting treatment for intercompany accounts and transactions, minority interest, and the income statement treatment in consolidation for issuances of stock by a subsidiary. Also discloses any material changes in classifications in the current financial statements compared to the classifications in the prior year's financial statements, including an explanation of the reason for the change and the areas impacted.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairmentShareOfReportingEntity">
    <definition>This item represents the share of reporting entity to an other than temporary decline in value that has been recognized against an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDeferredLeasingFees">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityBasisPoints">
    <definition>The number of basis points added to the reference rate to compute the interest rate on the line of credit facility.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearOne">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfOwnershipAcquired">
    <definition>This element represents Percentage of ownership interests acquired in the business combination.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfMarketableSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AccumulatedAmortizationDeferredFinancingAndLeaseCosts">
    <definition>The accumulated amortization, as of the reporting date, representing the sum of the periodic charge to earnings of deferred costs which are associated with debt obligations existing as of the end of the period and the periodic charge to earnings of initial direct costs which have been deferred and are being allocated over the lease term in proportion to the recognition of rental income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CapitalStockSharesOfExcessCommonStock">
    <definition>The number of shares of capital stock authorized less the number of shares of capital stock issued.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesProvisionForLossGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtRepayments">
    <definition>This element represents the repaid debts.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationNotesPayableAndLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LimitedPartnersPreferredInterestInOperatingPartnershipAndNoncontrollingRedeemableInterestsInProperties">
    <definition>Represents the Limited Partners' Preferred Interest in Operating Partnership and Noncontrolling Redeemable Interests in Properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DistributionsOfCapitalFromUnconsolidatedEntitiesAndOther">
    <definition>Cash inflows from unconsolidated entities and other.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestNetOfTax">
    <definition>Represents the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), which is attributable to noncontrolling interest.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRelatedParty">
    <definition>Number of shares of stock issued during the period to related parties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestRatePercentageRate">
    <definition>The weighted-average interest rate applicable to the portion of the carrying amount of long-term borrowings outstanding as of the balance sheet date, including current maturities, which accrues interest at a rate subject to change from time to time.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentPropertiesUsefulLifeMinimumFixturesAndEquipment">
    <definition>The minimum useful life of real estate investments in fixtures and equipment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestPrincipalAmortizationPeriod">
    <definition>Represents the period over which interest and principal paid on mortgage notes and mezzanine loans are to be amortized.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfFairValueOfFixedRateMortgagesTextBlock">
    <definition>This element represents the schedule disclosing the fair values of fixed rate mortgages and other related disclosures relevant for arriving at its fair value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalReceivableUnderOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of the future minimum lease receivables as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, in the aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, under noncancelable tenant operating leases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DeferredFinancingAndLeasingCostsGross">
    <definition>Represents the sum of capitalized costs associated with the issuance of debt instruments and costs incurred by a lessor that are (a) costs to originate a lease incurred in transactions with independent third parties that (i) result directly from and are essential to acquire that lease and (ii) would not have been incurred had that leasing transaction not occurred and (b) certain costs directly related to specified activities performed by the lessor for that lease. Such amount is before the consideration of accumulated amortization.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AssetImpairmentChargesPerDilutedCommonShare">
    <definition>The amount of asset impairment charges per diluted common share outstanding during the reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockUnamortizedPremium">
    <definition>The amount of preferred stock premium that was originally recognized at the issuance of stock that has yet to be amortized and included in carrying value of preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AcquisitionOfControllingInterestSaleOrDisposalOfAssetsAndInterestsInUnconsolidatedEntitiesGainOrLoss">
    <definition>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.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRemainingAmortizationPeriod">
    <definition>A description of the remaining amortization period of a major finite-lived intangible asset class.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsMinorityInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount">
    <definition>The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit outstanding as of the reporting date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfPropertyRepairsAndMaintenance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfExpectedAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of the estimated aggregate amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization for each of the five succeeding fiscal years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentQuotedMarketPricePerShare">
    <definition>The quoted market price per share for an investment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableAttributableToLeasesWithAffiliateOfLimitedPartnerInOperatingPartnership">
    <definition>Represents the percentage of the future minimum rental payments receivable under an operating lease, which are attributable to leases with an affiliate of a limited partner in the operating partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfQuarterlyFinancialInformationTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements as a single block of text. The disclosure includes a tabular presentation of financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income (loss) before extraordinary items and cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle and earnings per share data.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossIncludingPortionAttributabletoNoncontrollingInterestNetOfTax">
    <definition>Represents the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CapitalStockParValuePerShare">
    <definition>Face amount or stated value of all types and classes of stock per share.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalShareBasedCompensationAmortization">
    <definition>Adjustment to additional paid-in-capital resulting from the periodic adjustments of stock incentives.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfCashPaidNetOfCapitalizationTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of cash payments for interest for each period presented.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CapitalStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>The number of shares of capital stock authorized.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentsSummarizedFinancialInformationBalanceSheetTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of summarized balance sheet financial information for investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareReconciliationTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of the reconciliation of basic net earnings per share (or unit) to diluted earnings per share (or unit).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Goodwill">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_OperatingPartnershipCapitalAccountUnitsIssued">
    <definition>This element represents the number of units issued by the Operating Partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CommonStockDividendsPercentTaxableAsLongTermCapitalGains">
    <definition>Represents the percentage of the dividends declared or paid during the period that are taxable as long-term capital gains.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockConvertedDuringPeriodShares">
    <definition>Number of shares of preferred stock converted to common stock during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAdditionalRestrictedStockAwardValueToDirectorServingAsChairpersonOfOtherStandingCommittees">
    <definition>Reflects the value of additional restricted stock awarded to a director serving as a chairperson of a standing committee other than the Audit Committee.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionOfLand">
    <definition>Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of costs that were capitalized after the acquisition of land, but excluding the initial purchase price.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesIncomeStatementContingentRevenue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtInstrumentVariableRateMaturityPeriod">
    <definition>Represents the weighted-average maturity period for variable-rate debt instruments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfPropertiesSubjectToGroundLeases">
    <definition>Represents the number of consolidated properties subject to ground leases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_GainLossDueToAcquisitionOfControllingInterest">
    <definition>This element represents the gain/ (loss) due to acquisition of controlling interest, which resulted in a remeasurement of previously held equity interest to fair value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfConsolidatedPropertiesWithGuaranteesOfForeclosure">
    <definition>This element represents the number of consolidated properties for which guarantees of foreclosure are provided.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestIncome">
    <definition>Represents the interest income on the mortgage loan receivable.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndNotesReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToContingentlyIssuableShares">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentMaturityMinimumRange">
    <definition>This element represents the minimum range of maturity periods of the investments held by the entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByParent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestAmount">
    <definition>The portion of the carrying amount of long-term borrowings outstanding as of the balance-sheet date, including current maturities, which accrues interest at a set, unchanging rate.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetAcquiredInPlaceLeasesNet">
    <definition>Represents the amount of value allocated by a lessor (acquirer) to lease agreements which existed at the time of acquisition of a leased property, net of accumulated amortization. Such amount may include the value assigned to existing tenant relationships and excludes the market adjustment component of the value assigned for above or below-market leases acquired.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FixedRateDebt">
    <definition>The carrying value of the amount of fixed rate debt outstanding at the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CumulativeInvestmentOwnershipPercentage">
    <definition>This element represents Cumulative investment in ownership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtOnJointVentureTableTextBlock">
    <definition>This table presents the scheduled principal payment repayments on joint venture properties' mortgages and other indebtdness.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MinorityInterestWeightedAverageOwnershipInterestPercentageByParent">
    <definition>The consolidating entity's weighted average interest in net assets of the subsidiary, expressed as a percentage.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentMaturityMaximumRange">
    <definition>This element represents the maximum range of maturity periods of the investments held by the entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityRepaymentAmountDenominatedInUSCurrency">
    <definition>Element represents the repayment on the Euro-denominated tranche of the Credit Facility, in US currency.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAdditionalRestrictedStockAwardValueToDirectorServingAsChairpersonOfAuditCommittee">
    <definition>Reflects the value of additional restricted stock awarded to a director serving as a chairperson of audit committee.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockVotingRights">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfOtherEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalPreferredStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Liabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerCashDistribution">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerPerUnit">
    <definition>The cumulative amount of quarterly distributions per share or per unit.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets">
    <definition>Total of Deferred Costs and Other Assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationOtherCurrentLiabilities">
    <definition>The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to the accounts payable, accrued expenses, intangibles and other current liabilities of the acquired entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateMaximumInterestRateInRange">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LongtermDebtNonrecourseAmount">
    <definition>This element represents the nonrecourse amount of mortgage notes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfInterestsAcquiredLowEndOfRange">
    <definition>This element represents low end of percentage of ownership interests acquired in the business combination.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_OperatingPartnershipCapitalAccountAmount">
    <definition>This element represents the amount of units issued by the Operating Partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeUpperRangeLimit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateMinimumInterestRateInRange">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MarketingAndAdvertisingExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FixturesAndEquipmentGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentEntityOwnershipNetIncome">
    <definition>This item represents the amount of the entity's share of net income loss reported by the joint ventures in which the entity has an ownership interest.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeAssetsAtFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfCrossDefaultedAndCrossCollateralizedMortgagePoolsWithCollateralProperties">
    <definition>Number of pools of cross-defaulted and cross-collateralized mortgages encumbering the entity's properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestsNoncash">
    <definition>Amount of distributions to noncontrolling interests paid in units (non-cash).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ProfitLossExcludingPreferredDistributions">
    <definition>The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest and excluding preferred distributions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>The weighted average period between the balance sheet date and expiration for equity-based awards other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan), which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NotionalAmountForeignCurrencyContractEnteredIntoDuringPeriod">
    <definition>The notional amount of foreign currency contracts entered into during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NotesReceivableRelatedPartyStatedVariableRate">
    <definition>The number of basis points added to the reference rate to compute the variable interest rate for the related party note outstanding at the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CashTenderOfferDebtInstrumentsPrincipalAmount">
    <definition>The stated principal amount of the debt instruments involved in the cash tender offer.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RelatedPartyTransactionAmountsChargedToPropertiesOwnedByRelatedParties">
    <definition>Represents amounts charged to properties owned by related parties other than unconsolidated joint ventures for services provided by the entity's management company and its affiliates.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterestInOperatingPartnerships">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesOfLessorDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PropertiesSubjectToFinancialPerformanceCovenants">
    <definition>The number of encumbered properties subject to various financial performance covenants.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesConsolidationOfPreviouslyUnconsolidatedEntities">
    <definition>Reflects additions to the allowance for loan and lease losses arising due to consolidation of previously unconsolidated entities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredUnitsConvertedDuringPeriodUnits">
    <definition>Number of preferred units converted to common units during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ImpairmentExpenseNetOfTax">
    <definition>After tax impairment related to consolidated investment properties, investments in unconsolidated entities, and available for sale investment securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InsuranceCoverageAllActsOfTerrorism">
    <definition>The amount of coverage per occurrence against acts of terrorism maintained by the entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfDeferredFinancingAndLeasingCostsTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of deferred financing and leasing costs, including gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_QuarterlyFinancialInformationTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DeferredFinancingAndLeasingCostsNet">
    <definition>Represents the sum of capitalized costs associated with the issuance of debt instruments and costs incurred by a lessor that are (a) costs to originate a lease incurred in transactions with independent third parties that (i) result directly from and are essential to acquire that lease and (ii) would not have been incurred had that leasing transaction not occurred and (b) certain costs directly related to specified activities performed by the lessor for that lease. This element is net of accumulated amortization.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfTaxableNatureOfDividendsDeclaredOrPaidTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of the taxable nature of dividends declared or paid during the reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_WeightedAverageDiscountRateAssumedOnCalculationOfFairValueOfDebt">
    <definition>Represents the discount amount in terms of percentage, assumed for calculation of fair value of debt.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherIncome">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfInterestInJointVenture">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassificationAdjustmentOnDerivativesIncludedInNetIncomeNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockLiquidationPreference">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateHeldForInvestmentNumberOfLoans">
    <definition>The number of loans on real estate, both mortgage and mezzanine, that are held for investment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PartnersCapitalAccountAcquisitionsExchangesAndConversions">
    <definition>Total change in each class of partners' capital accounts during the year due to acquisitions exchanges and conversions. Partners include general, limited and preferred partners.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodNetOfForfeitures">
    <definition>The number of shares (or other type of equity) issuable under an equity-based award plan pertaining to grants made during the period, net of forfeitures on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationLiabilitiesMortgagesAndOtherIndebtedness">
    <definition>The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to the mortgages and other indebtedness of the acquired entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of the combined aggregate amount of maturities and sinking fund requirements for all long-term borrowings for each of the five years following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FloorRateOfLIBOR">
    <definition>This element represents floor rate of LIBOR.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_JointVenturePropertiesNumber">
    <definition>The number of properties owned via a joint venture and accounted for using the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NetIncomeLossAttributableToPreferredInterestInOperatingPartnership">
    <definition>Net income attributable to preferred interests in the Operating Partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeAverageFixedInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConcentrationRiskNumberOfRetailers">
    <definition>The number of retailers occupying a significant proportion of the anchor stores in the entity's retail properties, representing a concentration of credit risk.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfLimitedPartnersProvidingGuaranteesOfForeclosure">
    <definition>This element represents the number of limited partners providing guarantees of foreclosure.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AcquisitionNumberOfPropertiesWithNoncontrollingInterestHolder">
    <definition>Following an acquisition, the number of properties that continue to have a noncontrolling interest holder</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConcentrationOfRiskPercentOfConsolidatedRevenues">
    <definition>The maximum percentage of consolidated revenues represented by a single customer or tenant that is used as a threshold for disclosure.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRentReceivables">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CommonStockIssuedDuringPeriodConversionOfPreferredStock">
    <definition>Number of shares of common stock issued as a result of the conversion of preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCarryingAmountOfMortgages">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_TemporaryEquityDividendRatePercentage">
    <definition>The percentage of dividend rate on temporary equity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingAndExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>This element represents details pertaining to both weighted-average remaining contractual life of options, which are outstanding and exercisable. The weighted-average period remaining as of the balance-sheet date until option expiration pertaining to the outstanding stock options for all option plans in the customized range of exercise prices, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, years, months). It also includes the weighted average remaining life of the exercisable stock options as of the balance sheet date for all option plans in the customized range of exercise prices.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairmentNumberOfRegionalMalls">
    <definition>The number of regional malls for which the entity recognized impairment charges against an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockRedeemedByCashPaymentAmountOfPayment">
    <definition>The amount of cash redemption payments made to redeem preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentLandBuildingAndBuildingImprovements">
    <definition>Aggregate of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of investments in land, building and building improvements.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtInstrumentRepaymentsNumber">
    <definition>The number of series of notes that were repaid.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ManagementFeesAndOtherRevenues">
    <definition>Revenue, comprised of base and incentive revenue, from operating and managing another entity's business during the reporting period; plus revenues not otherwise specified.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CostOfAcquisitonIncludingAssumptionOfDebt">
    <definition>The total cost of acquisition of real estate including the assumption of existing indebtedness.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateInvestmentTrustDistributionOfTaxableIncomeToStockholdersMinimumPercentageUnderRegulation">
    <definition>Represents the minimum percentage of entity's taxable income which is required to be distributed to stockholders in order to maintain the REIT status.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAccruedExpensesIntangiblesDeferredRevenuesAndOtherLiabilities">
    <definition>The net change during the reporting period in accounts payable, accrued expenses, intangibles, deferred revenues and other liabilities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_TemporaryEquityRedemptionPriceTradingPeriod">
    <definition>The number of trading days in which the evaluation period of the closing price of the stock is calculated in order to determine whether redemption of the temporary equity may occur.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRatePercentageRate">
    <definition>The weighted-average interest rate applicable to the portion of the carrying amount of long-term borrowings outstanding as of the balance sheet date, including current maturities, which accrues interest at a set, unchanging rate.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationAmortizableIntangibleAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ChangeInPartnersCapital">
    <definition>Change in capital as a result of a reallocation of a subsidiary's stockholders' equity to noncontrolling interest due to the subsidiary issuing stock, issuing units, redemptions, or distributions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentBuildingAndBuildingImprovements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LimitedPartnershipUnitsIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfPreferredUnits">
    <definition>The value of limited partner units issued during the period related to the conversion of Preferred Units to Limited Partner Units.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AcquisitionConsiderationPaid">
    <definition>The amount of consideration paid for acquisition, as of the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FutureAmortizationExpenseAfterYearFive">
    <definition>The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized for the remainder of the finite-lived intangible asset useful life after the fifth succeeding fiscal year.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstateAndInterestsInRealEstatePartnerships">
    <definition>Cash outflows to Acquire Real Estate and Interests in Real Estate Partnerships.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestAmount">
    <definition>The portion of the carrying amount of long-term borrowings outstanding as of the balance-sheet date, including current maturities, which accrues interest at a rate subject to change from time to time.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentPropertiesUsefulLifeMaximumFixturesAndEquipment">
    <definition>The maximum useful life of real estate investments in fixtures and equipment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateTaxExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtWeightedAverageInterestRate">
    <definition>Reflects the calculation as of the balance sheet date of the average interest rate weighted by the amount of debt outstanding by type or by instrument at that time.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfOwnershipInterestInOperatingPartnershipTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of information and data related to ownership interest held by the reporting entity in the operating partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityDecreaseRepayments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostMethodInvestmentsAggregateCarryingAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CashDistributionsAndLossesInPartnershipsAndJointVenturesAtEquity">
    <definition>Cash Distributions and Losses in Partnerships and Joint Ventures, at Equity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock">
    <definition>For operating leases having initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year, the lessee shall disclose both: future minimum payments required as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, in the aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and the total minimum rentals to be received in the future under noncancelable subleases as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityPublicFloat">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDebtDiscountPremium">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInFourYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfInterestsAcquiredHighEndOfRange">
    <definition>This element represents high end of percentage of ownership interests acquired in the business combination.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsInvestmentProperties">
    <definition>The amount of investment properties acquired in a business combination.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebtCashFlowImpact">
    <definition>Cash flow impact of the difference between the fair value of the payments made and the carrying amount of the debt at the time of its extinguishment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedPremium">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalReallocationOfMinorityInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentsSummarizedFinancialInformationStatementOfOperationsTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of summarized statement of operations information for investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_OtherLiabilitiesAndAccruedDividends">
    <definition>Total of Other Liabilities and Accrued Dividends. Other liabilities are the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of liabilities not individually reported in the financial statements. Accrued dividends are the carrying value as of the balance sheet date of dividends declared but unpaid on equity securities issued by the entity and outstanding.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConvertibleClassBSharesOutstandingConditionedUpon1998Charter">
    <definition>The number of Class B shares outstanding as of the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MovementInMinorityInterestRollForwardTextBlock">
    <definition>A schedule disclosing a roll forward of noncontrolling interests.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CommonAreaMaintenanceFixedPaymentReceivedFromTenant">
    <definition>Represents the percentage of the entity's leases for which a fixed payment is received from the tenant for the common area maintenance.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecuritiesNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PercentageOfConsiderationPaidInUnits">
    <definition>This element represents the percentage of consideration paid in units.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentEntityOwnershipInvestmentNet">
    <definition>This item represents the disclosure of the entity's net investment in investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DevelopmentInProcess">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AmountOfReductionInCarryingAmountOfProperties">
    <definition>Represents the amount of reduction in the carrying value of a property to its estimated net realizable value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateAcquisitionsDisposalsAndImpairmentDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>The entire disclosure of real estate acquisitions, disposals, and impairments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestRateCashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedDuringNext12MonthsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AllowanceForCreditLossesOnFinancingReceivablesTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of financing receivables (examples of financing receivables include loans, trade accounts receivable and notes receivable) and activity in the allowance for credit losses account.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingAndExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>This element represents details pertaining to both weighted-average remaining contractual life of options, which are outstanding and exercisable. The weighted-average price as of the balance sheet date at which grantees could acquire the underlying shares with respect to all outstanding stock options, which are in the customized range of exercise prices. It includes weighted-average exercise price as of the balance sheet date for those equity-based payment arrangements, which are exercisable and outstanding.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DistributionsPercentageToOperatingPartnershipUnit">
    <definition>The percentage of distributions paid on a unit of the Operating Partnership that participants of the stock-based compensation plan are entitled to receive during the performance period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLandAndBuildingsAndImprovements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_SegmentReportingPolicyPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of accounting policy for segment reporting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_UseOfEstimatesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of accounting policy for the use of estimates in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateInvestmentPropertiesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policy for investments in real estate held solely for investment purposes (income production and capital appreciation).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ProceedsToJointVenturePartnersFromSaleOfProperties">
    <definition>This element represents proceeds to joint venture partners from sale of properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DilutiveSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareOfReportingEntityOnDisposalOfInterestInJointVenture">
    <definition>The Company's share of gain on sale or disposal of assets and interests in unconsolidated entities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityExpandedMaximumBorrowingCapacityInTermsOfAccordionFeature">
    <definition>This item represents the maximum amount that could be borrowed under line of credit facility, by the entity in terms with accordion feature of debt. Accordion feature is an option, which gives the right to an entity to increase its line of credit.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfPropertiesCrossDefaultedAndCrossCollateralizedMortgagesTotal">
    <definition>The total number of properties pledged as collateral for cross defaulted and cross collateralized mortgages.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ImpairmentExpenseTaxEffect">
    <definition>Tax effect on impairment related to consolidated investment properties, investments in unconsolidated entities, and available for sale investment securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsCumulativeGrantsNetOfForfeitures">
    <definition>The number of grants, net of forfeitures of equity instruments that are not stock option plans awarded since inception of the plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMinorityShareholders">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentAmortizationOfDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountAndUnderlyingEquity">
    <definition>This item represents the amortization of the difference between the amount at which an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting is carried on the balance sheet and the amount of underlying equity in net assets the reporting entity has in the investee.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ImpairmentExpense">
    <definition>Impairment related to consolidated investment properties, investments in unconsolidated entities, and available for sale investment securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_StatesPropertiesLocatedNumber">
    <definition>The number of states in the United States in which the entity owns or has an ownership interest in income-producing properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConsolidatedWhollyOwnedPropertiesNumber">
    <definition>The number of properties wholly owned by the entity that are consolidated for financial reporting purposes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders">
    <definition>Decrease in noncontrolling interest balance from distributions to noncontrolling interest holders.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockDividendRatePercentage">
    <definition>The percentage rate used to calculate dividend payments on preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConversionBasisOfPreferredUnitsIntoPreferredStock">
    <definition>Describes the conversion features of preferred units if such units is convertible, that is, conversion of preferred units into preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedBalanceShares">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OriginationOfNotesReceivableFromRelatedParties">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PartnersCapitalAccountUnitsExchangeBasis">
    <definition>Describes the exchange features of limited partners units.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfInterestsAcquired">
    <definition>This element represents Percentage of Interests Acquired in Business Acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateInvestmentTrustDistributionOfTaxableIncomeToStockholdersMinimumPercentageForExemptionFromFederalIncomeTaxes">
    <definition>Represents the minimum percentage of entity's taxable income, which is required to be distributed to stockholders in order to be not liable for federal corporate income taxes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RevenueRecognitionSalesOfServicesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of accounting policy for revenue recognition for sales of a service. The entity also may disclose how it recognizes cost of sales for such a service transaction and its treatment of any unearned or deferred revenue that arises from the transaction.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FairvalueMeasurementsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes the entity's accounting policy for determining fair value and the valuation techniques utilized.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PropertiesUnderDevelopmentNumber">
    <definition>The number of properties under development or held for future development, owned or in which an ownership interest is held.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAccumulatedDepreciation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredUnitConversionToPartnerUnitValueWithRedemptionOfPreferredUnitsSecondSeriesInYear">
    <definition>The value of the Limited Partner Units issued upon redemption of Preferred Units when there is a second issuance in a reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToMinorityShareholders">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationPeriod">
    <definition>Reflects the period as to when the equity-based award expires as specified in the award agreement.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherPartnersCapital">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtInstrumentWeightedAverageDuration">
    <definition>Represents the weighted average term of maturities for different classes of debt.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfUnitsIssuedInConnectionWithAcquisitions">
    <definition>This element represent number of units issued by operating partnership in connection with the acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Revenues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAtCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardRestrictedStockAwardValueToDirectorOnInitialElection">
    <definition>Reflects the value of restricted stock awarded to non-employee directors upon initial election.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentThirdPartyInvestorsShareOfNetIncome">
    <definition>This item represents the amount of third parties' share of net income loss reported by the joint ventures in which the entity has an ownership interest.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_OtherThanTemporaryImpairmentLossesInvestmentsPortionRecognizedInEarningsNetAvailableforsaleSecurities">
    <definition>The amount of other than temporary impairment losses on investments in debt and equity securities categorized as Available-for-sale which have been recognized in earnings during the period. Such impairment losses consist of other than temporary impairments (OTTI) on equity securities, credit losses on investments in debt securities, and when the entity intends to sell an impaired debt security or it is more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the impaired debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfAmortizationOfDeferredCostTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of the components of amortization expense related to deferred financing and leasing costs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_UnrealizedGainLossOnInterestRateCashFlowHedgesPretaxAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss">
    <definition>Amount of unrealized gain (loss) related to the increase or decrease in fair value of interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments, which was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income to the extent that the cash flow hedge was determined to be effective.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredChargesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ImpairmentExpenseShareOfNoncontrollingInterestHolders">
    <definition>Represents the share of noncontrolling interest holders in impairment related to consolidated investment properties, investments in unconsolidated entities, and available for sale investment securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOrSaleOfEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LeaseAndRentalExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationRestrictedStockUnitsAwardActivityTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of the number and weighted-average grant date fair value for restricted stock units that were outstanding at the beginning and end of the year, and the number of restricted stock units that were granted, vested, or forfeited during the year.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfPropertiesPledgedAsCollateralToSecuredMortgageNotes">
    <definition>The number of properties pledged as collateral to secure related mortgage notes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ExcessInsuranceCarrierMinimumCoverageProvided">
    <definition>The minimum claim amount required to be submitted before the excess insurance carrier's coverage liability takes effect.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAverageOutstandingAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentLiabilitiesOtherLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_UnrealizedGainLossOnInterestRateDerivativeAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossJointVentures">
    <definition>The entity's share in the accumulated derivative losses of joint ventures, included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtInstrumentFixedRateMaturityPeriod">
    <definition>Represents the weighted-average maturity period for fixed-rate debt instruments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsAndNotesReceivableNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentPropertiesUsefulLifeMaximumBuildingAndBuildingImprovements">
    <definition>The maximum useful life of real estate investments in building and building improvements.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumAmountOutstandingDuringPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesRestricted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AcquisitionNumberOfPropertiesAcquired">
    <definition>The number of properties acquired under an acquisition, as of the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_TransactionExpenses">
    <definition>This item represents amount of transaction expenses incurred by the entity during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LimitedPartnersPreferredInterestInOperatingPartnership">
    <definition>Represents the limited partners' preferred interest in an operating partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromUnsecuredNotesPayable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PrepaidExpenseNotesReceivableAndOtherAssets">
    <definition>Represents the sum of prepaid expenses, notes receivables and other assets, not separately disclosed.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseInvestmentUnitsIssuedToLimitedPartners">
    <definition>Increase in noncontrolling interests resulting from the issuance of investment units to limited partners.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireHeldToMaturitySecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CommonStockDividendsPercentNonTaxableAsReturnOfCapital">
    <definition>Represents the percentage of the dividends declared or paid during the period that are nontaxable as a return of capital.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentExcessInvestmentLife">
    <definition>The life, in years, over which the excess investment in equity method investments is amortized.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LimitedPartnersNumberExchangingUnits">
    <definition>The number of limited partners that exchanged units for shares of common stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationLiabilitiesAssumed">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateWeightedAverageMaturityPeriod">
    <definition>Represents the weighted average period of maturity of mortgage notes and mezzanine loans.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ExtinguishmentOfDebtGainLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInThreeYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesAdjustmentsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RelatedPartyTransactionAmountsChargedToUnconsolidatedJointVentures">
    <definition>Represents amounts charged to unconsolidated joint ventures for services provided by the entity's management company and its affiliates.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_MarketableSecuritiesOthers">
    <definition>For an unclassified balance sheet, the total of marketable securities other than those categorized as available-for-sale debt securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_GuaranteesForeclosure">
    <definition>This element represents the portion of consolidated debt for which guarantees of foreclosure are provided.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockRedemptionPricePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ForeignCurrencyDerivativeExchangeRate">
    <definition>The average exchange rate used in a foreign currency derivative contract entered into during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DistributionsToPreferredUnitHoldersFinancingActivities">
    <definition>Distributions from earnings to preferred unit holders.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfPropertiesDisposed">
    <definition>This element represents the number of properties that are disposed during the period by the entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetOffMarketLeaseFavorableNet">
    <definition>This element represents the identifiable intangible asset based on a favorable difference between the terms of an acquired lease and the current market terms for that lease at the acquisition date, net of accumulated amortization.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ChangesInAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAndOther">
    <definition>Gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total unsold securities at the end of an accounting period, after tax, plus other increases (decreases) in other comprehensive income not otherwise identified.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionOfBuildingsAndImprovements">
    <definition>Carrying amount costs that were capitalized after the acquisition of buildings and improvements, but excluding the initial purchase price.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableAllowance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateDuringPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfInterestCostCapitalizedTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of the interest costs capitalized during each period presented.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfMortgagedPropertiesReleasedOnRepaymentOfDebt">
    <definition>Represents the number of mortgaged properties, which were released on subsequent repayment of debt.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RightToElectNumberOfBoardOfDirectors">
    <definition>Represents the number of board of directors' members that can be elected by a person or a group.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_FixedRateDebtFairValue">
    <definition>The fair value of the amount of fixed rate debt outstanding at the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TenantReimbursements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscountPremiumNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AdditionalProceedsRequestedFromInsuranceCarrier">
    <definition>Insurance proceeds requested from an excess insurance carrier.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsCashFlow">
    <definition>Cash flow impact of the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockRedeemedByCashPaymentShares">
    <definition>The number of shares of preferred stock redeemed through a cash redemption payment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LimitedPartnershipApproximateSettlementValuesNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>This element represents the approximate settlement values of noncontrolling interest in limited life partnerships.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AcquisitionOfControllingInterestSaleOrDisposalOfAssetsAndInterestsInUnconsolidatedEntitiesGainOrLossCashFlow">
    <definition>In a business combination achieved in stages, this element represents the cash flow effect of 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.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_InvestmentPropertiesUsefulLifeMinimumBuildingAndBuildingImprovements">
    <definition>The minimum useful life of real estate investments in building and building improvements.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_TransactionExpensesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policies for expense related to acquisition, potential acquisition and disposition related costs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConcentrationRiskNumberOfAnchorStores">
    <definition>The number of anchor stores in the entity's retail properties occupied by a limited number of retailers, representing a concentration of credit risk.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfOutletCentersAcquired">
    <definition>The number of outlet centers acquired in connection with the Prime acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_StockIssuedToCommonShareholdersAndLimitedPartnersShares">
    <definition>Stock issued to common shareholders and limited partners.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NoncontrollingRedeemableInterestsInProperties">
    <definition>Represents the limited partners' interests in other noncontrolling redeemable properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CapitalStockAuthorizedSharesOfPreferredStock">
    <definition>The number of shares of preferred stock authorized as part of the total number of shares of capital stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRights">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAdditionalRestrictedUnitsAwardToLeadDirectorValue">
    <definition>Reflects the value of additional restricted stock awarded to the Lead Director.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingAndExercisableNumber">
    <definition>This element represents details pertaining to both options, which are outstanding and exercisable. Options, outstanding refer to the number of shares reserved for issuance pertaining to the outstanding stock options as of the balance sheet date for all option plans in the customized range of exercise prices. Options, exercisable refer to the number of shares reserved for issuance pertaining to the outstanding exercisable stock options as of the balance sheet date in the customized range of exercise prices for which the market and performance vesting condition has been satisfied.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ApproximateNumberOfAnchorStoresInProperties">
    <definition>The approximate total number of anchor stores in the entity's retail properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepurchaseOfRedeemablePreferredStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_UnitsIssuedDuringPeriodUnitsConversionOfPreferredUnits">
    <definition>Number of partnership units issued during the period as a result of the conversion of preferred units.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterestDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RealEstateInvestmentTrustFailureToQualifyIneligibilityPeriod">
    <definition>Represents the length of time over which the entity may be ineligible to elect to be taxed as a REIT, following the taxable year in which it fails to qualify as a REIT.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of information pertaining to short-term and long-debt instruments or arrangements, including but not limited to identification of terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityRepaymentAmountDenominatedInForeignCurrency">
    <definition>Element represents the repayment on the Euro-denominated tranche of the Credit Facility, in the foreign currency.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockConversionToCommonStock">
    <definition>The number of common shares issued upon the conversion of preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsCashAndCashEquivalents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConsolidationLessThanWhollyOwnedPropertyParentOwnershipInterestPercentage">
    <definition>Represents the threshold percentage of ownership below which a property is not considered wholly owned but is consolidated in the financial statements of the parent entity on the basis of control.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CashIncreaseDecreaseFromConsolidationAndDeconsolidationOfPropertiesIncludingCashAcquiredInAcquisitions">
    <definition>The increase in cash due to including a property's cash in the consolidated entity's cash when they become a subsidiary; or the decrease in cash due to no longer including the former subsidiary's cash in the consolidated entity's cash. Includes cash acquired in acquisitions (i.e. Prime Outlets acquisition, et al).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardRestrictedStockAwardValueToDirectorOnReelection">
    <definition>Reflects the value of restricted stock awarded to non-employee directors upon re-election.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetWeightedAverageUsefulLife">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_HomeAndRegionalOfficeCosts">
    <definition>Home and Regional Office Costs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of information relating to Employee Options through the balance sheet date including the weighted-average exercise price per share and number of options granted, exercised and forfeited during the years presented.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NumberOfInterestRateDerivativesHeld">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireInterestInSubsidiariesAndAffiliates">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_JointVenturesNumber">
    <definition>The number of joint ventures in which the entity has an ownership interest.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAggregateGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>The aggregate grant date fair value of the awards made under the stock-based compensation plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountAndUnderlyingEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityCompetitiveBidFeatureMaximumPercent">
    <definition>This items represent the maximum percent of the line of credit that participating lender can bid on at then current market rates of interest.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CommonStockDividendsPaid">
    <definition>Represents the sum of the percentages of dividends paid by taxable nature.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_IncomeProducingPropertiesNumber">
    <definition>The number of income producing properties owned or in which an ownership interest is held.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_JointVenturePropertiesManagedByOthers">
    <definition>The number of properties owned via a joint venture in which daily operations are managed by groups other than the entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityReferenceRate">
    <definition>The reference rate for the rate of a debt instrument, such as LIBOR.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationAssetsAcquired">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_TemporaryEquityRedemptionPricePerShare">
    <definition>Amount to be paid per share that is classified as temporary equity by entity upon redemption. Temporary equity is a security with redemption features that are outside the control of the issuer, is not classified as an asset or liability in conformity with GAAP, and is not mandatorily redeemable. Includes any type of security that is redeemable at a fixed or determinable price or on a fixed or determinable date or dates, is redeemable at the option of the holder, or has conditions for redemption which are not solely within the control of the issuer. If convertible, the issuer does not control the actions or events necessary to issue the maximum number of shares that could be required to be delivered under the conversion option if the holder exercises the option to convert the stock to another class of equity. If the security is a warrant or a rights issue, the warrant or rights issue is considered to be temporary equity if the issuer cannot demonstrate that it would be able to deliver upon the exercise of the option by the holder in all cases. Includes stock with put option held by ESOP and stock redeemable by holder only in the event of a change in control of the issuer.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAndOtherPurchaseOfBusinessTransactionsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PercentageOfConsiderationPaidInCash">
    <definition>This element represents the percentage of consideration paid in cash.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinimumRents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LoansHeldForInvestmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policies for investments in mortgage loans or mezzanine loans.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockCapitalSharesReservedForFutureIssuance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RevenueRecognitionLeasesOperatingPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of accounting policy for revenue recognition for operating leases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteSubscriptionsReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssetsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Description of an entity's accounting policy related to deferred costs and other assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_CommonStockDividendsPercentTaxableAsOrdinaryIncome">
    <definition>Represents the percentage of the dividends declared or paid during the period that are taxable as ordinary income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RelatedPartyInterestIncomeNet">
    <definition>Interest income earned on notes receivable from related parties during the reporting period, net of inter-entity eliminations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProfitLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossUnamortizedAmountNetDeficitFromTerminatedSwapAgreements">
    <definition>The unamortized balance of the net deficit from terminated interest rate swap agreements recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_JointVenturePropertiesManagedNumber">
    <definition>The number of properties owned via a joint venture in which daily operations are managed by the entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>This item represents an other than temporary decline in value, net of tax that has been recognized against an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredStockLiquidationValue">
    <definition>The aggregate liquidation value of the outstanding shares of preferred stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfHeldToMaturitySecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfRentExpenseTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of rental expense from operating leases for each period for which an income statement is presented with separate amounts for minimum rentals, contingent rentals, and sublease rentals. Rental payments under leases with terms of a month or less that were not renewed need not be included.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ProceedsFromSaleOfPartnershipInterestsOtherAssetsAndDiscontinuedOperationsNet">
    <definition>Cash inflows from the sale of partnership interests, other assets, and discontinued operations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentOfNotesReceivableFromRelatedParties">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfLimitedPartnersPreferredInterestInOperatingPartnershipAndOtherInterestInPropertiesTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of limited partners preferred interest in operating partnership; preferred interest represents preference in liquidation, redemption, conversion, tax status of distribution or sharing in distributions and also includes other noncontrolling redeemable interests in properties.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentDividendsOrDistributions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_PreferredUnitConversionToPartnerUnitValueWithRedemptionOfPreferredUnits">
    <definition>The value of Limited Partner Units issued upon redemption of Preferred Units.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConvertiblePreferredSharesConversionRatio">
    <definition>The conversion ratio used for converting each share of preferred stock or preferred units into common stock or units of the Operating Partnership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesUnrealizedGainLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_RelatedPartyFinancingFeeIncome">
    <definition>Financing fee income earned on notes receivable from related parties during the reporting period, net of inter-entity eliminations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ScheduleOfDeferredCostsAndOtherAssetsTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Tabular disclosure of deferred costs and the carrying amounts of other assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCumulativeChangesInNetGainLossFromDerivativesBeforeTax">
    <definition>Accumulated change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments. Includes the entity's share of other comprehensive income from joint ventures.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInTwoYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstandingInHomeCurrency">
    <definition>This element represents the amount borrowed in foreign currency under the credit facility, reported in home currency as of date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DepreciationAndAmortizationCashFlows">
    <definition>The cash flow add back for the noncash expense of depreciation and amortization.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_DebtAndDerivativeInstrumentsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>The complete disclosure of indebtedness and derivative financial instruments. The disclosure on indebtedness includes information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants. The disclosure of derivative financial instruments includes a description of risk management strategies, derivatives in hedging activities and nonhedging derivative instruments, the assets, obligations, liabilities, revenues and expenses arising there from, and the amounts of and methodologies and assumptions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NotesReceivableRelatedPartiesMaturityDateExtensionsNumber">
    <definition>The number of one-year loan maturity date extensions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockDividends">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateOwnedTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>
