<XBRL>
<DefinitionAndReference>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCumulativeChangesInNetGainLossFromCashFlowHedgesEffectNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities">
    <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="spg_AverageMinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByParent">
    <definition>The entity's weighted average ownership interest in net assets of the subsidiary, expressed as a percentage.</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="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentDifferenceBetweenCarryingAmountAndUnderlyingEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="spg_PreferredUnitConversionToPartnerUnitValue">
    <definition>The book value of preferred units that were converted to limited partner units.</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="us-gaap_OtherPartnersCapital">
    <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_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecurities">
    <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="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="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_CapitalStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>The number of shares of capital stock authorized.</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_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding">
    <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_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="spg_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfInterestsAcquired">
    <definition>This element represents Percentage of Interests Acquired in Business Acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock">
    <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_CaptialStockSharesOfExcessCommonStock">
    <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="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares">
    <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_DistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders">
    <definition>Decrease in noncontrolling interest balance from distributions to noncontrolling interest holders.</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="us-gaap_NotesReceivableRelatedParties">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="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="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_ProceedsFromMinorityShareholders">
    <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_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_RepaymentOfNotesReceivableFromRelatedParties">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_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_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <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_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedByCommonClassTextBlock">
    <definition>This element may be used to capture the complete disclosure pertaining to an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share.</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_CostOfPropertyRepairsAndMaintenance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="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_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerCashDistribution">
    <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="spg_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipMortgagesAndOtherIndebtedness">
    <definition>This item represents the disclosure of the entity's share of the mortgages and other indebtedness of the equity method investment.</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_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
    <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_EntityCentralIndexKey">
    <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="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_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_AccountsAndNotesReceivableNet">
    <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="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <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="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
    <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="us-gaap_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByParent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnSalesOfAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassificationAdjustmentForWriteDownOfSecuritiesIncludedInNetIncomeNetOfTax">
    <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, issuring units, redemptions, or distributions.</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="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
    <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="us-gaap_TenantReimbursements">
    <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_ProceedsFromIssuanceOrSaleOfEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits">
    <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_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_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="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="spg_NumberOfNotesIncludedInTenderOffer">
    <definition>Represents the number of notes included in the bond tender offer.</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="us-gaap_ExtinguishmentOfDebtGainLossNetOfTax">
    <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_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="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet">
    <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="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesRestricted">
    <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_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_PaymentsOfDividendsMinorityInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_OtherLiabilities">
    <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="us-gaap_Revenues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterestIncreaseFromStockIssuance">
    <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="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue">
    <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_PreferredUnitsConvertedDuringPeriodUnits">
    <definition>Number of preferred units converted to common units during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationNetOfTax">
    <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_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAccumulatedDepreciation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_PreferredUnitsPreferredPartnersCapitalAccounts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <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="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_MarketableSecuritiesUnrealizedGainLoss">
    <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="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAtCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization">
    <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_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_ConsiderationReceivedByJointVentureNet">
    <definition>This element represents consideration received by joint venture.</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="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="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="spg_PreferredStockRedeemedByCashPaymentPerShareAmount">
    <definition>The redemption price per share for preferred stock redeemed through a cash redemption payment.</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_EquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_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="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="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax">
    <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_OriginationOfNotesReceivableFromRelatedParties">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_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_ProfitLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_SheduleOfStockholdersEquityDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>This element represents the entire disclosure of stockholders equity.</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="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_GainLossOnSaleOfAssetsAndInterestsInUnconsolidatedEntities">
    <definition>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="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_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TranslationAdjustmentForNetInvestmentHedgeNetOfTax">
    <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="dei_AmendmentFlag">
    <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_CostsAndExpenses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="spg_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestExcludingPreferredDistributions">
    <definition>The amount of comprehensive income or loss, excluding preferred distributions of the Operating Partnership that are related to units included in temporary equity.</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="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_DebtInstrumentWeightedAverageDuration">
    <definition>Represents the weighted average term of maturities for different classes of debt.</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="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepurchaseOfRedeemablePreferredStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <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_PaymentsToAcquireInvestments">
    <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="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
    <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="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="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="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssets">
    <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="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense">
    <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="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesAuthorized">
    <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_NumberOfInterestRateDerivativesHeld">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndNotesReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="dei_DocumentType">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="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_OtherIncome">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_AmountOfLoanAcquiredInConnectionWithAcquisitionOfBusiness">
    <definition>This element represents amount of loan acquired in connection with our acquisition of Premium Outlets.</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_StockholdersEquityOther">
    <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="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstateAndInterestsInRealEstatePartnerships">
    <definition>Cash outflows to Acquire Real Estate and Interests in Real Estate Partnerships.</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="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_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_InterestRateDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="spg_NumberOfPropertiesSold">
    <definition>The number of properties which were sold.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_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_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax">
    <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="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <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.</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_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAverageOutstandingAmount">
    <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="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
    <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_OtherMinorityInterests">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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="spg_PendingAcquisitionExpectedConsiderationToBePaid">
    <definition>The amount of expected consideration to be paid for a pending acquisition as of the balance sheet date.</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="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_InternationalJointVentureProperties">
    <definition>The number of properties owned via an International joint venture.</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="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="spg_HomeAndRegionalOfficeCosts">
    <definition>Home and Regional Office Costs.</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="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
    <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="spg_PendingAcquisitionNumberOfPropertiesExpectedToBeAcquired">
    <definition>The number of properties expected to be acquired due to an acquisition pending as of the balance sheet date.</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_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="spg_InvestmentQuotedMarketPricePerShare">
    <definition>The quoted market price per share for an investment.</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="spg_DemergerResultingNumberOfCompanies">
    <definition>The number of new companies formed as a result of a demerger.</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_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_ForeignCurrencyDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod">
    <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="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentDecreaseRepayments">
    <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_MinorityInterest">
    <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="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
    <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="us-gaap_RealEstateTaxExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</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_DebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations">
    <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="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_WtdAverageCouponRate">
    <definition>The weighted average coupon rate on unsecured debt.</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="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="spg_NumberOfPropertyDisposed">
    <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="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfMarketableSecurities">
    <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_InterestRateDerivativeAssetsAtFairValue">
    <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_BondTenderOfferDebtInstrumentsPrincipalAmount">
    <definition>The stated principal amount of the debt instruments involved in the bond tender offer.</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>
</DefinitionAndReference>
</XBRL>
