| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 29, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Gaming & Leisure Properties, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | PA |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001575965 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 29, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-36124 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 46-2116489 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 845 Berkshire Blvd. |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 400 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Wyomissing |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 19610 |
| City Area Code | (610) |
| Local Phone Number | 401-2900 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | GLPI |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
