Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. [Member]	Dec. 31, 2012 CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. [Member]	Dec. 31, 2011 CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 CBL & Associates Limited Partnership [Member]	Dec. 31, 2012 CBL & Associates Limited Partnership [Member]	Dec. 31, 2011 CBL & Associates Limited Partnership [Member]
Net income	$ 110,370	$ 174,519	$ 184,994	$ 110,370	$ 174,519	$ 184,994
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	(2,583)	4,426	(214)	(2,583)	4,426	(214)
Reclassification to net income of realized (gain) loss on available-for-sale securities	0	(224)	22	0	(224)	22
Unrealized gain (loss) on hedging instruments	1,815	(207)	(5,521)	1,815	(207)	(5,521)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(768)	3,995	(5,713)	(768)	3,995	(5,713)
Comprehensive income	109,602	178,514	179,281	109,602	178,514	179,281
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests in:
Operating Partnership	(7,018)	(19,701)	(24,558)
Other consolidated subsidiaries	(18,041)	(23,652)	(25,217)	(18,041)	(23,652)	(25,217)
Comprehensive income attributable to the Company	$ 84,543	$ 135,161	$ 129,506	$ 91,561	$ 154,862	$ 154,064