| Document and Entity Information | Jul. 15, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | INNERWORKINGS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001350381 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 15, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-52170 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-5997364 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 203 North LaSalle Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 1800 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Chicago |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60601 |
| City Area Code | (312) |
| Local Phone Number | 642-3700 |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.0001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | INWK |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | true |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
