| Cover | Aug. 06, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001350381 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 6, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | INNERWORKINGS, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or 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 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.0001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | INWK |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
