Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] 443 Wabash MAB LLC 443 Wabash MAB LLC [Member] 443 Wabash MAB LLC [Member] AM Tysons LLC AM Tysons LLC [Member] AM Tysons LLC [Member] Biltmore Shopping Center Partners LLC Biltmore Shopping Center Partners LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Biltmore Shopping Center Partners LLC. CAM-CARSON LLC—Los Angeles Premium Outlets CAM-CARSON LLC - Los Angeles Premium Outlets [Member] CAM-CARSON LLC - Los Angeles Premium Outlets [Member] Coolidge Holding LLC Coolidge Holding [Member] Represents the joint venture, Coolidge Holding LLC. Corte Madera Village, LLC Corte Madera Village, LLC [Member] Represents Corte Madera Village, LLC, a joint venture in which the entity has made investment. Country Club Plaza KC Partners LLC Country Club Plaza KC Partners LLC [Member] Country Club Plaza KC Partners LLC [Member] Fashion District Philadelphia—Various Entities Fashion District Philadelphia [Member] Fashion District Philadelphia [Member] HPP-MAC WSP, LLC—One Westside HPP-MAC WSP, LLC—One Westside [Member] HPP-MAC WSP, LLC—One Westside [Member] Jaren Associates 4 Jaren Associates 4 [Member] Represents the joint venture, Jaren Associates #4. Kierland Commons Investment LLC Kierland Commons Investment LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Kierland Commons Investment LLC. Macerich HHF Broadway Plaza LLC—Broadway Plaza Macerich HHF Broadway Plaza LLC—Broadway Plaza [Member] Macerich HHF Broadway Plaza LLC—Broadway Plaza [Member] Macerich HHF Centers LLC—Various Properties Macerich HHF Centers LLC—Various Properties [Member] Macerich HHF Centers LLC—Various Properties [Member] MS Portfolio LLC MS Portfolio LLC [Member] MS Portfolio LLC [Member] New River Associates LLC—Arrowhead Towne Center New River Associates LLC—Arrowhead Towne Center [Member] New River Associates LLC—Arrowhead Towne Center [Member] North Bridge Chicago LLC North Bridge Chicago LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, North Bridge Chicago LLC. One Scottsdale Investors LLC One Scottsdale [Member] Represents the joint venture, One Scottsdale Investors LLC. Pacific Premier Retail LLC—Various Properties Pacific Premier Retail LLC [Member] Pacific Premier Retail LLC [Member] Propcor II Associates, LLC—Boulevard Shops Propcor II Associates, LLC Boulevard Shops [Member] Represents the joint venture, Propcor II Associates, LLC Boulevard Shops. Scottsdale Fashion Square Partnership Scottsdale Fashion Square Partnership [Member] Represents the joint venture, Scottsdale Fashion Square Partnership. TM TRS Holding Company LLC TM TRS Holding Company LLC—Valencia Place at Country Club Plaza [Member] TM TRS Holding Company LLC—Valencia Place at Country Club Plaza [Member] Tysons Corner LLC Tysons Corner LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Tysons Corner LLC. Tysons Corner Hotel I LLC Tysons Corner Hotel I LLC [Member] Tysons Corner Hotel I LLC [Member] Tysons Corner Property Holdings II LLC Tysons Corner Property Holdings II LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Tysons Corner Property Holdings II LLC. Tysons Corner Property LLC Tysons Corner Property LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Tysons Corner Property LLC. West Acres Development, LLP West Acres Development, LLP [Member] Represents the joint venture, West Acres Development, LLP. Westcor/Surprise Auto Park LLC Westcor/Surprise Auto Park LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Westcor/Surprise Auto Park LLC. WMAP, L.L.C.—Atlas Park, The Shops at WMAP LLC Atlas Park [Member] Represents the joint venture, WMAP, L.L.C. Atlas Park. Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures: Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Ownership % Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Interest rate cap/swap agreements Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate cap Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest rate swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Number of interest rate swap agreements Derivative, Number of Instruments Held Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount LIBOR Rate Derivative, Variable Interest Rate Fair Value Derivative, Fair Value, Net Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax benefit (expense) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Dividends declared for common stock (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Management fees Management Service [Member] Development and leasing fees Development and Leasing Fees [Member] Development and Leasing Fees [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Unconsolidated joint ventures and third party managed properties Unconsolidated Joint Ventures and Third Party Managed Properties [Member] Represents unconsolidated joint ventures and third-party properties that engage the entity to manage their operations. Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Management fees Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Director's Phantom Stock Plan Directors Phantom Stock Plan [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the entity's Directors' Phantom Stock Plan. Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Phantom stock units Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member] Share and unit-based plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Deferral period for grant of units (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Number of common shares into which units can be converted (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments, Other than Options, Conversion Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments, Other than Options, Conversion Rate Maximum shares authorized under plan (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Shares available for issuance under plan (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of year (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Balance at end of year (shares) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Balance at beginning of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance at end of year (in dollars per share) Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Revenues Revenues Net income attributable to the Company Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net income attributable to common stockholders (dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Net income attributable to common stockholders (dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Remeasured ending deferred tax asset Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Outstanding Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Co-Venture Arrangement [Abstract] Co-Venture Arrangement [Abstract] Financing Arrangement Co-venture Arrangement Disclosure [Text Block] This text block represents complete disclosure with respect to co-venture arrangements. Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Contribution Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Contribution Plans Disclosures [Table] Disclosures about an individual defined contribution pension plan or an other postretirement defined contribution plan. Retirement Plan Name [Axis] Retirement Plan Name [Axis] Retirement Plan Name [Domain] Retirement Plan Name [Domain] 401(k) Plan Defined Contribution Plan [Member] Represents the defined contribution plan for employees of the reporting entity. Deferred Compensation Plans Deferred Compensation Plans [Member] Deferred Compensation Plans [Member] Employee Benefit Plans: Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Number of common stock shares reserved for issuance (in shares) Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Number of additional common stock shares reserved for issuance (in shares) Common Stock Additional Capital Shares Reserved For Future Issuance Represents the number of additional common shares reserved for future issuance. Employer match of employee contributions of first 3% of eligible compensation (as a percent) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Match, Level One Represents the employer matching contribution of the first level of employee contributions. Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 100% by employer (as a percent) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Match, Employee Contribution, Level One Represents the first level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer. Employer match of employee contributions of next 2% of eligible compensation (as a percent) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Match, Level Two Represents the employer matching contribution of the second level of employee contributions. Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 50% by employer (as a percent) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Match, Employee Contribution, Level Two Represents the second level of employee contributions (percentage of compensation) which are matched by the employer. Employer contribution Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Stock awards Stock Awards [Member] Stock awards as awarded by an entity to their employees as a form of an incentive compensation. Stock units Stock Units [Member] Stock units as awarded by an entity to their employees as a form of incentive compensation. Shares or Units Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Above Market Above Market Leases [Member] Below Market Below Market Lease [Member] Below Market Lease [Member] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Above Market Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Allocated value net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Below Market Below Market Lease, Net, Amortization Income, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Below Market Lease, Amortization Income, Next Twelve Months 2020 Below Market Lease, Amortization Income, Year Two 2021 Below Market Lease, Amortization Income, Year Three 2022 Below Market Lease, Amortization Income, Year Four 2023 Below Market Lease, Amortization Income, Year Five Thereafter Below Market Lease, Amortization Income, after Year Five Allocated value, net Below Market Lease, Net Leases [Abstract] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments by the Company Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Tenant improvements Tenant Improvements [Member] Represents the improvements having a life longer than one year that were made for the benefit of one or more tenants. Equipment and furnishings Equipment and Furnishings [Member] Tangible personal property, nonconsumable in nature, with finite lives used to produce goods and services and long-lived, depreciable assets commonly used in offices and stores. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Estimated useful lives of assets (in years) SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used for Depreciation Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures Threshold ownership percentage above which to use equity method of accounting only if no controlling financial interest Threshold Ownership Percentage for Equity Method Accounting only if, No Controlling Financial Interest Represents the threshold percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in an investee above which the equity method of accounting is still applied only if the entity does not have a controlling financial interest in the investee. Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends, dollars per share Dividends [Abstract] Ordinary income (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Ordinary Income, Per Share Represents the ordinary income distributed as dividend per common stock share. Capital gains (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Capital Gain Distribution, Per Share Represents the capital gain distributed as dividend per common stock share. Unrecaptured Section 1250 gain (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Unrecaptured Section 1250 Gain Distribution, Per Share Represents the unrecaptured Section 1250 gain distributed as dividend per common stock share. Return of capital (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Return of Capital Distribution, Per Share Represents the return of capital distributed as dividend per common stock share. Dividends paid for income tax purposes (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid, Income Tax Purposes Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid, Income Tax Purposes Dividends, percent Dividends, by Type Alternative [Abstract] Ordinary income (as a percent) Common Stock, Dividends, Ordinary Income, Percentage Represents the ordinary income distributed as dividend, as a percentage of total dividends paid. Capital gains (as a percent) Common Stock, Dividends, Capital Gain Distribution, Percentage Represents the capital gain distributed as dividend, as a percentage of total dividends paid. Unrecaptured Section 1250 gain (as a percent) Common Stock, Dividends, Unrecaptured Section 1250 Gain Distribution, Percentage Represents the unrecaptured Section 1250 gain distributed as dividend, as a percentage of total dividends paid. Return of capital (as a percent) Common Stock, Dividends, Return of Capital Distribution, Percentage Represents the return of capital distributed as dividend, as a percentage of total dividends paid. Dividends paid (as a percent) Common Stock, Dividends, Cash Paid, Percentage Aggregate percentage of dividends paid during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Cash deemed paid (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Deemed Paid, Income Tax Purposes Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Deemed Paid, Income Tax Purposes SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule III-Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block] Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of year (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Special dividend adjustment (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Special Dividend Adjustment Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Special Dividend Adjustment Balance at end of year (shares) Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Balance at beginning of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Special dividend adjustment (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Special Dividend Adjustment, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Special Dividend Adjustment, Weighted Average Exercise Price Balance at end of year (in dollars per share) Schedule of Fees Charged to Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Schedule of Revenues from Unconsolidated Joint Ventures and Third Party Managed Properties [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of revenue derived from management, development and leasing fees charged to unconsolidated joint ventures and third-party managed properties. Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving line of credit Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Prasada Note Prasada Note [Member] Prasada Note [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Low end of range High end of range Bank and other notes payable Debt Instrument [Line Items] Line of credit Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Variable interest rate spread (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Extension option term Line of Credit Facility, Term of Extension Option The term of the extension option on the credit facility. Maximum contingent borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Contingent Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Contingent Borrowing Capacity Line of credit Long-term Line of Credit Deferred finance cost Debt Issuance Costs, Net Average interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period Availability for additional borrowings Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Fair value of line of credit Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Debt issued Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Interest rate on debt (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Carrying value of term loan Long-term Debt, Gross Estimated fair value of term loan Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization Nature of Operations [Text Block] Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation of VIE Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenues Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block] Property Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalization of Costs Capitalization of Cost [Policy Text Block] When a cost is recorded originally as an increase to an asset account, it is said to be capitalized. This means that the outlay is treated as a capital expenditure, which becomes part of the total cost basis of the asset. The alternative is to record the cost as an expense immediately in the period the cost is incurred. Capitalized costs refer mainly to costs that are recorded in the long-term operating assets of a business, such as buildings, machines, equipment, tools, and so on. Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Acquisitions Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Charges Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounting for Impairment Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Share and Unit-based Compensation Plans Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Management Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Gain on extinguishment of debt, net Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss (gain) on sale or write down of assets, net Gain (Loss) on Sale or Write Down of Assets Gain (Loss) on Sale or Write Down of Assets Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of net premium on mortgage notes payable Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of share and unit-based plans Share-based Compensation Straight-line rent adjustment Straight Line Rent Adjustments Amortization of above and below-market leases Amortization of above and below Market Leases Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Income tax (benefit) expense Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Change in fair value of financing arrangement obligation Liabilities, Fair Value Adjustment Co-venture expense Income (Loss) from Co-venture Operations This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income or loss related to its profit-sharing arrangement. Distributions of income from unconsolidated joint ventures Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Tenant and other receivables Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Due from affiliates Increase (Decrease) Due from Affiliates Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Other accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Development, redevelopment, expansion and renovation of properties Payments to Acquire and Develop Real Estate Property improvements Payments to Develop Real Estate Assets Proceeds from repayment of notes receivable Proceeds from Collection of Notes Receivable Deferred leasing costs Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Leasing Fees Distributions from unconsolidated joint ventures Distributions of Capital from Unconsolidated Entities and Other Cash inflows from unconsolidated entities and other. Contributions to unconsolidated joint ventures Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture Proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Partnership Interests Other Assets and Discontinued Operations, Net Cash inflows from the sale of partnership interests, other assets, and discontinued operations. Net cash provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from mortgages, bank and other notes payable Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt and Capital Securities, Net Payments on mortgages, bank and other notes payable Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Deferred financing costs Payments of Financing Costs Payment of finance deposits, net of refunds received Payment of Finance Deposits Payment of Finance Deposits Payment of debt extinguishment costs Payment for Debt Extinguishment or Debt Prepayment Cost Proceeds from share and unit-based plans Proceeds from Stock Plans Stock repurchases Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Redemption of noncontrolling interests Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Settlement of contingent consideration Payments of Contingent Consideration Payments of Contingent Consideration Dividends and distributions Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Distributions to co-venture partner Distributions to Co-venture Partner This element represents the distributions to co - venture partner. Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Exchange Rate Effect Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of year Supplemental cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Accrued development costs included in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other accrued liabilities Construction in Progress Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Conversion of Operating Partnership Units to common stock Conversion of Stock, Amount Converted Mortgage notes payable settled by deed-in-lieu of foreclosure Notes Reduction Mortgage notes payable assumed by buyer in exchange for investment in unconsolidated joint venture Notes Assumed Disposition of property in exchange for investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Schedule of Components of Distributions Made to Common Stockholders on a Per Share Basis Schedule of Distributions made to Common Stockholders on Per Share Basis [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of distributions paid to common stockholders on a per share basis, consisting of ordinary income, capital gains, unrecaptured Section 1250 gain and return of capital or a combination thereof. Schedule of Income Tax Provision of TRSs Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Income Tax Provision of the TRSs to the Amount Computed by Applying the Federal Corporate Tax Rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Tax Effects of Temporary Differences and Carryforwards of the TRSs Included in Net Deferred Tax Assets Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Total Stockholders' Equity Parent [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Cumulative effect of adoption Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Amortization of share and unit-based plans (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Amortization of share and unit-based plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Exercise of stock options (in shares) Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Exercise of stock warrants Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Warrants Exercised Represents the value of shares issued during the period as a result of exercise of stock warrants. Employee stock purchases (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Employee stock purchases Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock offerings, net Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Stock issued to acquire properties Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Stock repurchase (in shares) Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock repurchases Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Distributions Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Contributions from noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Contributions from Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Contributions from Noncontrolling Interests Conversion of noncontrolling interests to common shares (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Units Conversion of noncontrolling interests to common shares Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Units Redemption of noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Adjustment of noncontrolling interests in Operating Partnership Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Balance (in shares) Balance Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] LTIP units Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-term incentive plan. Stock awards and units Stock Awards and Stock Units [Member] Stock awards and units awarded by an entity to their employees as a form of an incentive compensation. Compensation cost under share and unit-based plans Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Capitalized share and unit-based compensation costs Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Fair value of equity-based awards vested during period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Unrecognized compensation cost of share and unit-based plans Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Abstract] Tenant and Other Receivables, net Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Award Date [Axis] Award Date [Axis] Award Date [Domain] Award Date [Domain] January 1, 2016 January 1, 2016 [Member] January 1, 2016 [Member] January 1, 2017 January 1, 2017 [Member] January 1, 2017 [Member] June 1, 2017 June 1, 2017 [Member] June 1, 2017 [Member] January 1, 2018 January 1, 2018 [Member] January 1, 2018 [Member] January 29, 2018 January 29, 2018 [Member] January 29, 2018 [Member] Risk Free Interest Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected Volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Mortgage notes payable Secured Debt [Member] Mortgage loans payable on real estate 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2023 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long term debt including debt premium Debt premium Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Total Secured Debt Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Numerator Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to the Company Allocation of earnings to participating securities Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic and Diluted Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic and Diluted Numerator for basic and diluted EPS—net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders after Allocation to Participating Securities, Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders after Allocation to Participating Securities, Basic and Diluted Denominator Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Denominator for basic EPS—weighted average number of common shares outstanding (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Effect of dilutive securities Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Share and unit based compensation (shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Denominator for diluted EPS—weighted average number of common shares outstanding (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted EPS—net income attributable to common stockholders: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic (dollars per share) Diluted (dollars per share) Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Convertible preferred units Preferred Nonparticipating Convertible Units [Member] Represents convertible non-participating units or equivalent units of ownership interest in an LLC or LP. Partnership unit Partnership Units [Member] Represents units or equivalent units of ownership interest in an LLC or LP. Antidilutive securities Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities (shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Depreciation expense Depreciation, Nonproduction Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] Promenade at Casa Grande Promenade at Casa Grande [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Promenade at Casa Grande. Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Westside Pavilion Westside Pavilion [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Westside Pavilion. Cascade and Northgate Malls Cascade and Northgate Malls [Member] Cascade and Northgate Malls [Member] 500 North Michigan Avenue North Michigan Avenue 500 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to 500 North Michigan Avenue. Arrowhead Towne Center Arrowhead Towne Center [Member] Represents the joint venture, Arrowhead Towne Center. MAC Heitman Portfolio MAC Heitman Portfolio [Member] MAC Heitman Portfolio [Member] Capitola Mall Capitola Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Capitola Mall. Mervyn's (former locations) Mervyn's [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Mervyn's. Joint venture Corporate Joint Venture [Member] Impairment of real estate Impairment of Real Estate Write-off of development cost Write-off of Development Cost Represents the development cost written off during the period. Gain on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on Sale of Assets and Asset Impairment Charges Gain on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties Outside partner interest of the operating partnership Joint Venture Ownership Percent by Other Owners Joint Venture Ownership Percent by Other Owners Gain on land sales Gain (Loss) On Land Sales Gain (Loss) On Land Sales Gain on disposal Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Write down of non-real estate investment assets Loss on Sale of Investments Gain on sale of assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gain (Loss) on Sale and Remeasurement of Assets Represents the amount of gain or loss resulting from either the difference between the carrying value and the sales price or remeasurement of the carrying value of assets during the period, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Percentage of ownership interest sold Equity Method Investments, Percentage of Ownership Interest Sold The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting that was sold by the entity during the period. Gain (loss) on sale or write down of assets, net Loss on write-off of development costs Gain (Loss) on Sale or Remeasurement of Assets and Interests in Unconsolidated Entities Gains or losses resulting from either the difference between the carrying value and the sales price or remeasurement of the carrying value for consolidated investment property and equity method investments. Contingent settlement payment Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table] REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] Estimated useful lives of assets Changes in total real estate assets SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate [Roll Forward] Balances, beginning of year SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Gross Additions Real Estate Acquisitions Improvements and Other Additions Amount of increase to real estate investments during the period due to acquisitions, improvements and other additions made to real estate. Dispositions and retirements Real Estate Cost of Real Estate Sold or Retired The carrying amount of real estate sold or retired during the period. Balances, end of year Aggregate gross cost of the property for federal income tax purposes SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Federal Income Tax Basis Changes in accumulated depreciation SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward] Balances, beginning of year SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation Additions Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation, Depreciation Expense and Other Additions Amount of depreciation expense and other additions to accumulated depreciation for the period. Dispositions and retirements Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation, Real Estate Sold or Retired The amount that was removed from accumulated depreciation pertaining to real estate that was sold or retired in the period. Balances, end of year Income Statement [Abstract] Tenant recoveries Tenant Recoveries [Member] Tenant Recoveries [Member] Other Real Estate, Other [Member] Management Companies Shopping center and operating expenses Real Estate [Member] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Minimum rents Operating Leases, Income Statement, Minimum Lease Revenue Percentage rents Operating Leases, Income Statement, Percentage Revenue Revenues Total revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Operating expenses Cost of Goods and Services Sold REIT general and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense Costs related to shareholder activism Unsolicited Tender Offer Costs Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Total expenses before interest Costs and Expenses before Interest, Total The sum of all costs of sales and operating expenses, excluding interest expense, for the period. Interest expense: Interest Expense [Abstract] Related parties Interest Income (Expense), Related Party Interest Income (Expense), Related Party Other Interest Expense, Other Total interest expense Interest Expense Gain on extinguishment of debt, net Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt, Including Penalties Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt, Including Penalties Total expenses Costs and Expenses Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures Co-venture expense Income tax benefit (expense) (Loss) gain on sale or write down of assets, net Net income Less net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Earnings per common share attributable to common stockholders: Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Basic (shares) Diluted (shares) Schedule of Deferred Charges and Other Assets, Net Schedule of Other Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Estimated Amortization of Intangible Assets for the Next Five Years and Thereafter Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Allocated Values of Above-market Leases and below-market leases Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Estimated Amortization of Allocated Values of Above and Below-market Leases for the Next Five Years and Thereafter Schedule of Above Market Lease and Below Market Lease Future Amortization [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the allocated values of above and below-market leases expected to be amortized into minimum rents on a straight-line basis over the individual remaining lease terms. Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 2003 Equity Incentive Plan Equity Incentive Plan 2003 [Member] Represents information pertaining to 2003 Equity Incentive Plan of the entity. Term of award (in years) Share Based Compensation Arrangements by Share Based Payment Award, Expiration Term The period of time, from the grant date until the time at which the share-based award expires. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Property, net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Non-qualified stock options Non-qualified Stock Options [Member] Non-qualified Stock Options [Member] Stock options, outstanding, number (shares) Stock options, outstanding, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) Dividend yield (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Share Price Share Price Expected term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Class of Warrant or Right [Table] Class of Warrant or Right [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] 2015 Stock Buyback Program 2015 Stock Buyback Program [Member] 2015 Stock Buyback Program [Member] Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] Authorized amount for stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Authorized amount for accelerated stock repurchase program Accelerated Share Repurchases, Settlement (Payment) or Receipt Accelerated share repurchased, number of shares purchased (shares) Accelerated Share Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Purchased Accelerated Share Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Purchased Average price per share paid for stock repurchased for accelerated stock repurchases (in dollars per share) Accelerated Share Repurchases, Final Price Paid Per Share Repurchased shares (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Repurchased shares Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Repurchased shares (in dollars per share) Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Par value of common stock (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Maximum price of common stock available to be issued Maximum Aggregate Common Stock Offer Price Maximum Aggregate Common Stock Offer Price Leasing Deferred Costs, Leasing, Gross Intangible assets: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross [Abstract] In-place lease values Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Acquired-in-Place Leases Leasing commissions and legal costs Finite-lived Intangible Asset Leasing Commissions and Legal Costs Gross carrying amount before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date of capitalized leasing commissions and lease-related legal costs. Above-market leases Finite Lived Intangible Asset above Market Leases Gross carrying amount before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date of the intangible asset for leases acquired as part of a real property acquisition at above market lease rate. Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred compensation plan assets Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] In-place lease values, leasing commissions and legal costs Leases, Acquired-in-Place [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Co-Venture Asset, Distributions in Excess of Obligation Co-Venture Asset, Distributions in Excess of Obligation Other assets Other Assets, Miscellaneous Deferred charges and other assets, gross Deferred Costs and Other Assets, Gross Sum of the gross carrying amounts before accumulated amortization of deferred costs that are expected to be recognized as a charge against future earnings plus assets not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Less accumulated amortization Accumulated Amortization Deferred Costs and Finite-lived Intangible Assets The accumulated amount of amortization related to deferred costs capitalized at the end of the reporting period and finite-lived intangible assets. Deferred charges and other assets, net Deferred Costs and Other Assets Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding March 3, 2016 March 3, 2016 [Member] March 3, 2016 [Member] March 3, 2017 March 3, 2017 [Member] March 3, 2017 [Member] March 2, 2018 March 2, 2018 [Member] March 2, 2018 [Member] April 26, 2018 April 26, 2018 [Member] April 26, 2018 [Member] Service-based Long Term Incentive Plan, Service-based [Member] Long Term Incentive Plan, Service-based [Member] Market-indexed Long Term Incentive Plan, Market-based [Member] Long Term Incentive Plan, Market-based [Member] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] First vesting period Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member] Second vesting period Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member] Third vesting period Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member] Forth vesting period Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Four [Member] Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Four [Member] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table] (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Terminal capitalization rate Measurement Input, Cap Rate [Member] Discount rate Measurement Input, Discount Rate [Member] Market rents per square foot Market Rent Per Square Foot [Member] Market Rent Per Square Foot [Member] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items] (Deprecated 2018-01-31) Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair value input Real Estate, Measurement Input Real Estate, Measurement Input Mortgage Notes Payable Mortgage Notes Payable Disclosure [Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] SARs Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Stock appreciation units balance (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number Stock appreciation weighted average price (in dollars per share) Collaborative Arrangement Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum future payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Ground rent expenses Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Contingent rent incurred Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Contingent Rentals Contingent liability under letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Outstanding obligations under construction agreements Construction Payable, Current Schedule of Ownership Interest in Joint Ventures Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Combined and Condensed Balance Sheets of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures and Other Related Information Equity Method Investments, Summarized Financial Information Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Disclosure of summarized balance sheet financial information for investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Combined and Condensed Statements of Operations of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Equity Method Investments, Summarized Financial Information Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Disclosure of summarized statement of operations information for investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Schedule of Joint Ventures [Table] Schedule of Joint Ventures [Table] A schedule providing information pertaining to the joint venture interests of the entity. Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Financing arrangement Financing Arrangement [Member] Financing Arrangement [Member] Freehold Raceway Mall and Chandler Fashion Center Freehold Raceway Mall and Chandler Fashion Center [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the Freehold Raceway Mall and Chandler Fashion Center properties. Freehold Raceway Mall Freehold Raceway Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Freehold Raceway Mall. Chandler Fashion Center Chandler Fashion Center [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Chandler Fashion Center. Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Difference between revenue guidance in effect before and after topic 606 Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Co-Venture Arrangement Schedule of Joint Ventures [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Ownership interest (as a percent) Joint Venture Ownership Percentage Sold The percentage of ownership interest in the joint venture sold by the entity during the period. Property area (in square feet) Area of Real Estate Property Financing arrangement obligation Financing Arrangement Obligation Financing Arrangement Obligation Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Net operating income multiple Fair Value Inputs, Financing Arrangement, Operating Income Multiple Fair Value Inputs, Financing Arrangement, Operating Income Multiple Discount rate Financing Arrangement, Discount Rate Financing Arrangement, Discount Rate Market rent per square foot Finance Leased Asset, Measurement Input Distributions of partner's share of net income Income (Loss) from Joint Venture Income (Loss) from Joint Venture Distributions in excess of partner's share of net income Joint Venture, Distributions in Excess of Partner Share of Income (Loss) Joint Venture, Distributions in Excess of Partner Share of Income (Loss) Adjustment to fair value of financing arrangement obligation Fair Value Adjustment of Finance Obligation Fair Value Adjustment of Finance Obligation Schedule of Future Maturities of Bank and Other Notes Payable Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Operating Partnership's VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Property, net Real Estate Investment Property, Net [Member] Real Estate Investment Property, Net [Member] Other assets Other Assets [Member] Total assets Assets, Total [Member] Other liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Total liabilities Liabilities, Total [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] ASU 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] ASU 2016-18 Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Financing arrangement obligation Capitalized internal leasing costs Capitalized Costs, Internal Leasing Capitalized Costs, Internal Leasing Right of use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Lease liability Operating Lease, Liability Net cash provided by investing activities Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive loss: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to the Company Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Thereafter Reconciliation of Numerator and Denominator Used in Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] ASSETS: Assets [Abstract] Property, net Real Estate Investment Property, Net Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash, Current Tenant and other receivables, net Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Deferred charges and other assets, net Due from affiliates Due from Affiliates Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Equity Method Investments Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY: Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Mortgage notes payable: Mortgage Notes Payable [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Related parties Notes Payable, Related Parties Others Secured Debt Nonrelated Party Carrying value as of the balance sheet date, including the current and noncurrent portions, of collateralized debt obligations such as mortgage loans. Total Bank and other notes payable Convertible Debt, Line of Credit and Other Notes Payable Includes the current and noncurrent portions, carrying amount of debut identified as being convertible into another form of financial instrument, the carrying values of obligations drawn from a line of credit, and other notes payable. Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Other accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities Distributions in excess of investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures. The carrying amount of liabilities resulting from investments in unconsolidated real estate and joint ventures not separately presented as of the balance sheet date. Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, $0.01 par value, 250,000,000 shares authorized, 141,221,712 and 140,993,985 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Summary of Activity of Non-vested Stock Awards Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity of Non-vested Stock Units Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity of SARs Awards Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Appreciation Rights Award Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of LTIP Units Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule LTIP Units Valuation Assumptions Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity of Stock Options Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity of Non-vested Phantom Stock Units Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Phantom Stock Units Award, Activity [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the changes in outstanding nonvested phantom stock units. Compensation Cost Under the Share and Unit-based Plans Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block] Future Rental Revenues Lessor, Operating Leases [Text Block] Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA Fashion Outlets at Niagara Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Fashion Outlets at Niagara pledged as collateral, bearing interest at 6.46 percent and maturing in 2016. Fashion Outlets of Chicago Fashion Outlets of Chicago Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Fashion Outlets of Chicago property pledged as collateral. Freehold Raceway Mall Freehold Raceway Mall Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Freehold Raceway Mall property pledged as collateral. Green Acres Commons Green Acres Commons [Member] Green Acres Commons [Member] Santa Monica Place Santa Monica Place Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on Santa Monica Place property pledged as collateral. SanTan Village Regional Center San Tan Village Regional Center Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the SanTan Village Regional Center property pledged as collateral. Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [Member] Debt premiums Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Unamortized deferred finance costs Interest in the loan assumed by a third party (as a percent) Percentage of Loan Assumed by Third Party Portion of the loan assumed by a third party. Effective interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Mortgage loan SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Additional borrowing Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages, Additional Borrowing Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages, Additional Borrowing Interest rate on debt, term Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage, Term Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage, Term Earnings Per Share (EPS) Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Northwestern Mutual Life (NML) Northwestern Mutual Life [Member] Represents Northwestern Mutual Life ("NML"), considered a related party because it is a joint venture partner of the entity. Unconsolidated joint ventures Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Member] Represents unconsolidated joint ventures. Affiliated entity Affiliated Entity [Member] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Related Parties Note Receivable, RED Consolidated Holdings, LLC Related Parties Note Receivable, RED Consolidated Holdings, LLC [Member] Related Parties Note Receivable, RED Consolidated Holdings, LLC [Member] Notes receivable Notes Receivable [Member] Fashion Outlets of San Francisco Fashion Outlets of San Francisco [Member] Fashion Outlets of San Francisco [Member] Interest expense, related party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Interest expense payable, related party Interest Expense Payable Related Party Amount of interest expense payable as of the balance sheet date on a debt or other obligation to a related party. Due (to) from affiliates Notes receivable interest rate Notes Receivable Interest Rate The stated interest rate on the note receivable. Interest earned Interest Income, Related Party Note receivable Notes Receivable, Related Parties Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Accrued percentage rents Accrued Income Receivable [Member] LSM Note Note Receivable1 [Member] Note Receivable1 [Member] Lake Square Mall Lake Square Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Lake Square Mall. Components of tenant and other receivables, net Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Premiums and Other Receivables Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross Deferred rent receivables due to straight-line rent adjustments Deferred Rent Receivables, Net Notes receivable Financing Receivable, Gross Notes receivable interest rate (as a percent) Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Dispositions Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Interest expense capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Fair value of mortgage notes payable Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Chandler Fashion Center Chandler Fashion Center Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Chandler Fashion Center property pledged as collateral. Danbury Fair Mall Danbury Fair Mall Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Danbury Fair Mall property pledged as collateral. Fresno Fashion Fair Fresno Fashion Fair [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Fresno Fashion Fair. Green Acres Mall Green Acres Mall Mortgage [Member] Green Acres Mall Mortgage [Member] Kings Plaza Shopping Center Kings Plaza Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Kings Plaza property pledged as collateral. Oaks, The The Oaks One Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Oaks property pledged as collateral. Pacific View Pacific View Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Pacific View property pledged as collateral. Queens Center Queens Center [Member] Represents the joint venture, Queens Center. Towne Mall Towne Mall Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Towne Mall property pledged as collateral. Tucson La Encantada Tucson La Encantada Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Tucson La Encantada property pledged as collateral. Victor Valley, Mall of Mall of Victor Valley Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Mall of Victor Valley property pledged as collateral. Vintage Faire Mall Vintage Faire Mall Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Vintage Faire Mall property pledged as collateral. Westside Pavilion Westside Pavilion Mortgage [Member] Mortgage note payable on the Westside Pavilion property pledged as collateral. Carrying amount of mortgage notes, related party Carrying amount of mortgage notes, other Monthly debt service Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment Summary of Quarterly Results of Operations Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Flagstaff Mall Flagstaff Mall, the Market Place at [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Flagstaff Mall, the Marketplace at. Cascade Mall Cascade Mall [Member] Cascade Mall [Member] Northgate Mall Northgate Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Northgate Mall. Flagstaff Mall Flagstaff Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Flagstaff Mall. Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Proceeds from sale Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Gain (loss) on disposal Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent events Subsequent Event [Line Items] Interest rate (as a percent) Schedule Operating Partnership's VIEs Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Estimated Useful Lives of Property Schedule of Depreciable Lives of Real Estate Investment Property [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the estimated useful lives of real estate investment property. Schedule of Range of the Terms of Loan and Lease Agreements Schedule of Range of Terms of Loan and Lease Agreements [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the range of the terms of loan and lease agreements over which costs are deferred and amortized. Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restricted Cash Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Schedule of Real Estate Properties Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table Text Block] Assets Measured on a Nonrecurring Basis Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Quantitative Information, Unobservable Inputs Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Conversion rate Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] The Macerich Partnership, L.P. The Macerich Partnership, L.P. [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, The Macerich Partnership, L.P. Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Ownership interest in operating partnership (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Limited partnership interest of the operating partnership (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Number of trading days used to calculate redemption value Minority Interest, Redemption Value Basis Number of Trading Days Minority Interest, Redemption Value Basis Number of Trading Days Redemption value of outstanding OP Units not owned by the Company Minority Interest Redemption Value Represents the aggregate redemption value for the noncontrolling interest. Allocated values of leases Above-Market Leases Above Market Leases [Abstract] Above Market Leases [Abstract] Original allocated value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Less accumulated amortization Below-Market Leases Below Market Lease [Abstract] Original allocated value Below Market Lease, Gross Less accumulated amortization Below Market Lease, Accumulated Amortization Danbury Fair Mall Danbury Fair Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Danbury Fair Mall. Desert Sky Mall Desert Sky Mall [Member] Represents the Desert Sky Mall property. Eastland Mall Eastland Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Eastland Mall. Estrella Falls Estrella Falls, The Market at [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Estrella Falls, the Market at. Fashion Outlets of Chicago Fashion Outlets of Chicago [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Fashion Outlets of Chicago. Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA Fashion Outlets of Niagara [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Fashion Outlets of Niagara. The Marketplace at Flagstaff Green Acres Mall Green Acres Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Green Acres Mall. Inland Center Inland Center [Member] Inland Center [Member] Kings Plaza Shopping Center Kings Plaza [Member] Kings Plaza [Member] La Cumbre Plaza La Cumbre Plaza [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, La Cumbre Plaza. Macerich Management Co. Macerich Management Company [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Macerich Management Company. MACWH, LP MACWH, LP [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, MACWH, LP. NorthPark Mall Northpark Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Northpark Mall. The Oaks The Oaks [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, The Oaks. Pacific View Pacific View [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Pacific View. Paradise Valley Mall Paradise Valley Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Paradise Valley Mall. Santa Monica Place Santa Monica Place [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Santa Monica Place. San Tan Adjacent Land San Tan Adjacent Land [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, SanTan Adjacent Land. San Tan Village Regional Center San Tan Village Regional Center [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, SanTan Village Regional Center. South Park Mall South Park Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, South Park Mall. Southridge Mall South Ridge Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, South Ridge Mall. Stonewood Center Stonewood Center [Member] Stonewood Center [Member] Superstition Springs Center Superstition Springs Center [Member] Represents the joint venture, East Mesa Mall, L.L.C. - Superstition Springs Center. Superstition Springs Power Center Superstition Springs Power Center [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Superstition Springs Power Center. Tangerine (Marana), The Shops at The Shops at Tangerine Marana [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, The Shops at Tangerine (Marana). Towne Mall Towne Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Towne Mall. Tucson La Encantada Tucson La Encantada [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Tucson La Encantada3. Valley Mall Valley Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Valley Mall. Valley River Center Valley River Center [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Valley River Center. Victor Valley, Mall of Victor Valley, Mall of [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Victor Valley, Mall of. Vintage Faire Mall Vintage Faire Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Vintage Faire Mall. Wilton Mall Wilton Mall Member [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Wilton Mall. Other freestanding stores Freestanding Store [Member] Freestanding Store [Member] Other land and development properties Other Assets and Development Properties [Member] Represents information pertaining to other real estate assets and development properties. Initial Cost to Company SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract] Land SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land Building and Improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Building and Improvements Equipment and Furnishings Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Equipment Furnishing Initial cost to the Entity for Equipment and furnishings. Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Cost Gross Amount at Which Carried at Close of Period SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Gross [Abstract] Land SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Land, Amount Building and Improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Building and Improvements, Amount Equipment and Furnishings Fixtures and Equipment, Gross Construction in Progress Development in Process Total Accumulated Depreciation Total Cost Net of Accumulated Depreciation SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Investment Property, Net Bank and other notes payable Notes Payable to Bank and Other Notes Payable [Member] Represents notes payable to bank and third party. Long-term debt Long-term Debt Ownership percentage Joint Venture Ownership Percent Joint Venture Ownership Percent Outside partner interest of the operating partnership Reimbursement percent Reimbursement Percent, Collaborative Arrangement Reimbursement Percent, Collaborative Arrangement Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Property, primarily differences in depreciation and amortization, the tax basis of land assets and treatment of certain other costs Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment Other Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) Other Represents the deferred tax assets and liabilities related to other temporary differences not otherwise specified as of the balance sheet date. Deferred tax assets PPR Portfolio Pacific Premier Retail LP [Member] Represents Pacific Premier Retail LP, a joint venture in which the entity has made investment. Other Joint Ventures Other Joint Ventures [Member] Represents other joint ventures in which the entity participates, not specifically identified. Assets: Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets [Abstract] Property, net Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Real Estate Investment Property, Net The net book value of real estate investment property reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Other assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Assets The aggregate carrying amount of other assets not separately disclosed, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Liabilities and partners' capital: Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Mortgage and other notes payable Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Secured Debt Carrying value as of the balance sheet date, including the current and noncurrent portions, of collateralized debt obligations reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Other liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Liabilities The aggregate carrying amount of other liabilities not separately disclosed, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Company's capital Equity Method Investment, Underlying Equity in Net Assets Outside partners' capital Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Equity or Capital Other Interests The amount of equity (capital) of an equity method investment of the entity that is attributable to other ownership interests. Total liabilities and partners' capital Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures: Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Basis adjustment Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Equity Method Investments, Net The carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee, net of the liability for distributions received in excess of the entity's investment. Assets—Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Liabilities—Distributions in excess of investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Total assets Total liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities Mortgage notes payable to affiliate Equity Method Investment, Notes Payable Related Party The amount for notes payable due to related parties reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Interest expense on borrowings from related party Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Interest Expense Related Party The amount of interest expense on a debt or other obligation to a related party reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Amortization of difference between cost of investments and book value of underlying equity Equity Method Investment, Amortization of Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity The item represents the amortization during the period of the difference between the amount at which an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting is carried (reported) on the balance sheet and the amount of underlying equity in net assets the reporting Entity has in the investee. Revenues: Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenues [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Minimum rents Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Minimum Lease Revenue The total amount of lease revenue recognized for the period for which the lessee was obligated under leasing arrangements regardless of any other events or conditions, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Percentage rents Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Percentage Rent This element represents the rental revenue earned during the period from lessee-operators based on revenues generated in their operations, generally in excess of a base amount, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Tenant recoveries Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Tenant Reimbursements This element represents allowable charges due a landlord from its tenant for the period, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Other Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Revenue The sum of all other revenue and income for the period reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Total revenues Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Expenses: Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Expenses [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Shopping center and operating expenses Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Real Estate Revenue This element represents the total of the costs related to real estate revenues reported for the period by an equity method investment of the entity. Interest expense Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Interest Expense The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period by an equity method investment of the entity. Depreciation and amortization Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Depreciation and Amortization The current period expense charged against earnings for depreciation and amortization on long-lived, physical assets not used in production, and which are not intended for resale, reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Total operating expenses Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Operating Expenses Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations for the period reported by an equity method investment of the entity. (Loss) gain on sale of assets Net (loss) income Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Company's equity in net (loss) income Book loss for TRSs Book Income, Loss for TRS Represents the book income (loss) for taxable REIT subsidiaries (TRSs). Tax at statutory rate on earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Change in tax rates Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount State taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Units Balance at beginning of year (shares) Exercised (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Exercised Special dividend adjustment (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Special Dividend Adjustment Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Special Dividend Adjustment Balance at end of year (shares) Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Special dividend adjustment (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Special Dividend Adjustment, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Special Dividend Adjustment, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Number of forms of in-place operating lease intangible assets and liabilities Number of Forms of in Place Operating Leases Represents the number of forms that can be taken by the identifiable intangible assets and liabilities relating to in-place operating leases acquired. ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Discount from market price (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Offering Date Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Nonrecurring Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] (Level 2) Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Total Fair Value Measurement Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Collateral [Axis] Collateral [Axis] Collateral [Domain] Collateral [Domain] Replacement collateral Collateral Pledged [Member] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate [Domain] Real Estate [Domain] Office building Office Building [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Country Club Plaza Country Club Plaza [Member] Country Club Plaza [Member] Deptford Mall Deptford Mall [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Deptford Mall. FlatIron Crossing FlatIron Crossing [Member] FlatIron Crossing [Member] Twenty Ninth Street Twenty Ninth Street [Member] Represents the information pertaining to real estate property of the entity, Twenty Ninth Street. Fashion District Philadelphia Los Angeles Premium Outlets Los Angeles Premium Outlets [Member] Los Angeles Premium Outlets [Member] Los Angeles Premium Outlets, second stage Los Angeles Premium Outlets, Second Stage [Member] Los Angeles Premium Outlets, Second Stage [Member] The Market at Estrella Falls LLC The Market at Estrella Falls [Member] Represents the joint venture, The Market at Estrella Falls LLC. Westcor/Queen Creek LLC Westcor/Queen Creek LLC [Member] Represents the joint venture, Westcor/Queen Creek LLC. Land Land [Member] Cash payment Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Cash Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Cash Assumption of debt Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Assumption of Debt Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Assumption of Debt Portfolio of marketable securities Marketable Securities Proceeds from sale Proceeds from Sale of Real Estate Joint venture ownership percentage Joint Venture Ownership Percentage Owned Joint Venture Ownership Percentage Owned Purchase price on acquisition Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Purchase price paid through assumption of debt by the Company Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Debt Assumed Proceeds from sale of building Proceeds from Sale of Buildings Proceeds received in disposition of property Pay off of mortgage loans Repayments of Secured Debt Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Shareholder activism Shareholder Activism Expense Shareholder Activism Expense Deferred Charges: Deferred Costs [Abstract] Deferred lease costs, amortization period (in years) Deferred Leasing Costs Amortization, Period Represents the initial term of tenant lease agreements over which leasing costs are deferred and amortized. Deferred financing costs, amortization period (in years) Deferred Financing Costs Amortization, Period Represents the term of loan agreements over which financing costs are deferred and amortized. Segment Information: Segment Reporting [Abstract] Number of business segments Number of Reportable Segments Number of geographic areas in which the Company operates Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Deferred Charges and Other Assets, net Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Increase in minimum rent due to straight-line rent adjustment Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenues Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Management fees as a percentage of gross monthly rental revenue Management Fee Revenue as Percentage of Gross Monthly Rental Revenue Represents the revenue earned for operating and managing third-party properties, expressed as a percentage of the gross monthly rental revenue of the properties managed. Mortgage Notes Payable Schedule of Mortgage Notes Payable [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of details related to mortgage notes payable by the entity, including properties which are pledged as collateral, carrying amounts, maturities and interest rates. Future Maturities of Mortgage Notes Payable Schedule of Future Maturities of Mortgage Notes Payable [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the combined aggregate amount of maturities of mortgage notes payable for each of the five years following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented. Share and Unit-based Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Schedule of Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Table] Schedule of Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] The Company The Macerich Company [Member] The Macerich Company [Member] Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items] Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items] Number of management companies (in entities) Number of Real Estate Management Companies Represents the number of management companies through which the entity provides property management, leasing and redevelopment for its real estate portfolio. Bank and Other Notes Payable Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Land Land Buildings and improvements Investment Building and Building Improvements Tenant improvements Tenant Improvements Equipment and furnishings Construction in progress Total Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost Less accumulated depreciation Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation Property, net