| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 20, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CEDAR FAIR L P |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000811532 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 20, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-9444 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 34-1560655 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One Cedar Point Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Sandusky |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OH |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 44870-5259 |
| City Area Code | 419 |
| Local Phone Number | 626-0830 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Depository Units (Representing Limited Partner Interests) |
| Trading Symbol | FUN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
