Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality (PRSU) 10-K 11 Mar 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	VIAD CORP
Entity Central Index Key	884,219
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Trading Symbol	VVI
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 534
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		20,173,803

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 56,531	$ 56,990
Accounts receivable, net of allowances for doubtful accounts of $1,593 and $1,258, respectively	93,800	78,121
Inventories	27,529	32,401
Other current assets	17,311	17,440
Total current assets	195,171	184,952
Property and equipment, net	189,239	199,571
Other investments and assets	39,203	40,674
Deferred income taxes	50,137	52,582
Goodwill	185,223	194,197
Other intangible assets, net	33,322	42,967
Total Assets	692,295	714,943
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	65,497	61,789
Customer deposits	33,128	32,720
Accrued compensation	23,154	20,736
Other current liabilities	29,238	27,787
Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations	34,554	27,856
Total current liabilities	185,571	170,888
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations	94,421	113,164
Pension and postretirement benefits	29,629	33,427
Other deferred items and liabilities	47,336	49,762
Total liabilities	$ 356,957	$ 367,241
Commitments and contingencies
Viad Corp stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, $1.50 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 24,934,981 shares issued	$ 37,402	$ 37,402
Additional capital	576,523	582,066
Retained deficit	(17,866)	(36,427)
Unearned employee benefits and other	109	23
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain on investments	346	471
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments	(23,257)	12,416
Unrecognized net actuarial loss and prior service credit, net	(11,265)	(13,476)
Common stock in treasury, at cost, 4,771,443 and 4,842,621 shares, respectively	(239,411)	(247,088)
Total Viad stockholders’ equity	322,581	335,387
Noncontrolling interest	12,757	12,315
Total stockholders’ equity	335,338	347,702
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$ 692,295	$ 714,943

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 1,593	$ 1,258
Common stock, par value	$ 1.50	$ 1.50
Common stock, shares authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	24,934,981	24,934,981
Treasury stock, shares	4,771,443	4,842,621

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenue:
Exhibition and event services		$ 799,752	$ 772,770	$ 685,350
Exhibits and environments		177,126	171,698	159,554
Travel and recreation services		112,170	120,519	108,443
Total revenue		1,089,048	1,064,987	953,347
Costs and expenses:
Costs of services		868,369	843,652	758,466
Costs of products sold		166,095	161,469	157,745
Gain on sale of facility and related land		0	0	(4,775)
Corporate activities		9,720	14,348	6,755
Interest income		(658)	(305)	(550)
Interest expense		4,535	2,015	1,234
Restructuring charges		2,956	1,637	3,793
Goodwill impairment charge				2,097
Other impairment charges		96	884	952
Total costs and expenses		1,051,113	1,023,700	925,717
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		37,935	41,287	27,630
Income tax expense		10,493	109	8,310
Income from continuing operations		27,442	41,178	19,320
Income (loss) from discontinued operations		(394)	14,389	2,366
Net income		27,048	55,567	21,686
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest		(442)	(3,213)	(131)
Net income attributable to Viad		$ 26,606	$ 52,354	$ 21,555
Diluted income (loss) per common share:
Continuing operations attributable to Viad common stockholders		$ 1.34	$ 2.02	$ 0.96
Discontinued operations attributable to Viad common stockholders		(0.02)	0.57	0.10
Net income attributable to Viad common stockholders	[1]	$ 1.32	$ 2.59	$ 1.06
Weighted-average outstanding and potentially dilutive common shares		19,981	20,133	20,265
Basic income (loss) per common share:
Continuing operations attributable to Viad common stockholders		$ 1.34	$ 2.02	$ 0.96
Discontinued operations attributable to Viad common stockholders		(0.02)	0.57	0.10
Net income attributable to Viad common stockholders		$ 1.32	$ 2.59	$ 1.06
Weighted-average outstanding common shares		19,797	19,804	19,850
Dividends declared per common share		$ 0.40	$ 1.90	$ 2.90
Amounts attributable to Viad common stockholders
Income from continuing operations		$ 27,000	$ 40,790	$ 19,437
Income (loss) from discontinued operations		(394)	11,564	2,118
Net income attributable to Viad		$ 26,606	$ 52,354	$ 21,555
[1]	Diluted income per share amount cannot exceed basic income per share.

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 27,048	$ 55,567	$ 21,686
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax effects of $(78), $26, and $96	(125)	42	154
Unrealized foreign currency translation losses net of tax	(35,673)	(18,431)	(11,311)
Change in net actuarial gain (loss), net of tax effects of $653, $(1,538), and $2,380	2,556	(2,568)	4,244
Change in prior service credit (cost), net of tax effects of $(210), $339, and $(327)	(345)	351	(535)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(6,539)	34,961	14,238
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(442)	(3,213)	(131)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Viad	$ (6,981)	$ 31,748	$ 14,107

Consolidated Statements of Com6

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Unrealized investment gains (losses) arising during the period, tax effects	$ (78)	$ 26	$ 96
Amortization of net actuarial gain (loss), tax effects	653	(1,538)	2,380
Amortization of prior service credit (cost), tax effects	$ (210)	$ 339	$ (327)

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Capital	Retained Deficit	Unearned Employee Benefits and Other	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Common Stock in Treasury	Total Viad Equity	Non-Controlling Interest
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 397,032	$ 37,402	$ 593,862	$ (13,034)	$ (1,301)	$ 27,465	$ (256,333)	$ 388,061	$ 8,971
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	21,686			21,555				21,555	131
Dividends on common stock	(58,914)			(58,914)				(58,914)
Common stock purchased for treasury	(1,328)						(1,328)	(1,328)
Employee benefit plans	778		(6,456)				7,234	778
ESOP allocation adjustment	1,280				1,280			1,280
Share-based compensation—equity awards	3,053		3,053					3,053
Tax benefits (expenses) from share-based compensation	404		404					404
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustment	(11,311)					(11,311)		(11,311)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments	154					154		154
Amortization of net actuarial gain (loss)	4,244					4,244		4,244
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	(535)					(535)		(535)
Other, net			(1)				1
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	356,543	37,402	590,862	(50,393)	(21)	20,017	(250,426)	347,441	9,102
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	55,567			52,354				52,354	3,213
Dividends on common stock	(38,387)			(38,387)				(38,387)
Common stock purchased for treasury	(12,321)						(12,321)	(12,321)
Employee benefit plans	4,324		(11,334)				15,658	4,324
ESOP allocation adjustment	44				44			44
Share-based compensation—equity awards	2,319		2,319					2,319
Tax benefits (expenses) from share-based compensation	217		217					217
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustment	(18,431)					(18,431)		(18,431)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments	42					42		42
Amortization of net actuarial gain (loss)	(2,568)					(2,568)		(2,568)
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	351					351		351
Other, net	2		2	(1)			1	2
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	347,702	37,402	582,066	(36,427)	23	(589)	(247,088)	335,387	12,315
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	27,048			26,606				26,606	442
Dividends on common stock	(8,036)			(8,036)				(8,036)
Common stock purchased for treasury	(4,816)						(4,816)	(4,816)
Employee benefit plans	4,536		(7,957)				12,493	4,536
Share-based compensation—equity awards	2,156		2,156					2,156
Tax benefits (expenses) from share-based compensation	360		360					360
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustment	(35,673)					(35,673)		(35,673)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments	(125)					(125)		(125)
Amortization of net actuarial gain (loss)	2,556					2,556		2,556
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	(345)					(345)		(345)
Other, net	(25)		(102)	(9)	86			(25)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 335,338	$ 37,402	$ 576,523	$ (17,866)	$ 109	$ (34,176)	$ (239,411)	$ 322,581	$ 12,757

Consolidated Statements of Sto8

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement Of Stockholders Equity [Abstract]
Dividends on common stock per share	$ 0.40	$ 1.90	$ 2.90

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$ 27,048	$ 55,567	$ 21,686
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	35,231	30,792	27,967
Deferred income taxes	469	(9,731)	2,298
(Income) loss from discontinued operations	394	(14,389)	(2,366)
Restructuring charges	2,956	1,637	3,793
Impairment charges	96	884	3,049
Gain on sale of facility and related land	0	0	(4,775)
Gains on dispositions of property and other assets	(690)	(958)	(265)
Share-based compensation expense	3,848	2,930	5,221
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation arrangements	(418)	(114)	(422)
Other non-cash items, net	5,394	5,386	4,870
Change in operating assets and liabilities (excluding the impact of acquisitions):
Receivables	(16,665)	(10,441)	1,246
Inventories	4,872	(2,555)	7,663
Accounts payable	(2,619)	18,128	(15,436)
Restructuring liabilities	(2,572)	(5,276)	(4,841)
Accrued compensation	1,469	3,663	(11,707)
Customer deposits	408	(6,406)	(20,965)
Income taxes payable	67	1,543	218
Other assets and liabilities, net	989	(12,570)	(11,179)
Net cash provided by operating activities	60,277	58,090	6,055
Cash flows from investing activities
Capital expenditures	(29,839)	(29,389)	(36,119)
Cash paid for acquired businesses	(430)	(120,251)	(647)
Proceeds from dispositions of property and other assets	1,542	1,109	464
Proceeds from possessory interest and personal property - discontinued operations	0	28,000	0
Proceeds from sale of facility and related land	0	0	12,696
Proceeds from sale of land—discontinued operations	0	0	1,645
Net cash used in investing activities	(28,727)	(120,531)	(21,961)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings	50,000	189,512	20,000
Payments on debt and capital lease obligations	(62,969)	(61,461)	(11,362)
Acquisition of business - deferred consideration	(896)	0	0
Dividends paid on common stock	(8,036)	(38,387)	(58,914)
Common stock purchased for treasury	(4,816)	(12,321)	(1,328)
Debt issuance costs	0	(1,671)	0
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation arrangements	418	114	422
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	1,041	1,155	777
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(25,258)	76,941	(50,405)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(6,751)	(3,331)	(2,039)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(459)	11,169	(68,350)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	56,990	45,821	114,171
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	56,531	56,990	45,821
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Cash paid for income taxes	10,114	8,389	8,498
Cash paid for interest	4,199	1,703	1,006
Property and equipment acquired under capital leases	1,008	881	832
Property and equipment purchases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$ 2,320	$ 780	$ 3,204

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Viad Corp (“Viad” or the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include the accounts of Viad and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Nature of Business Viad’s reportable segments consist of Marketing & Events U.S. Segment, Marketing & Events International Segment (collectively, the “Marketing & Events Group”) and the Travel & Recreation Group. Marketing & Events Group The Marketing & Events Group produces exhibitions, events, exhibits, and services some of the most visible and influential events. The Marketing & Events Group, GES’ clients include event organizers and corporate brand marketers. Corporate brand marketers include exhibitors and domestic and international corporations that want to promote their brands, services and innovations, feature new products, and build business relationships . GES serves its clients when they exhibit at shows or when GES is hired to manage their global exhibit program or corporate event. Travel & Recreation Group The Travel & Recreation Group provides experiential travel services in iconic natural and cultural destinations in North America through its collection of unique hotels, lodges, recreational attractions, and transportation services Significant Accounting Policies Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reported period. Estimates and assumptions are used in accounting for, among other things, the fair value of Viad’s reporting units used to perform annual impairment testing of recorded goodwill; allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable; provisions for income taxes, including uncertain tax positions; valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets; liabilities for losses related to self-insured liability claims; liabilities for losses related to environmental remediation obligations; sublease income associated with restructuring liabilities; assumptions used to measure pension and postretirement benefit costs and obligations; assumptions used to determine share-based compensation costs under the fair value method; and allocation of purchase price of acquired businesses. Actual results could differ from these and other estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents Viad considers all highly-liquid investments with remaining maturities when purchased of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Viad’s cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and bank demand deposits and money market mutual funds. The Company’s investments in money market mutual funds are classified as available-for-sale and carried at fair value. Allowances for Doubtful Accounts Viad maintains allowances for doubtful accounts to reflect the best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance. The allowances for doubtful accounts, including a sales allowance for discounts at the time of sale, is based upon an evaluation of the aging of receivables, historical trends, and the current economic environment. Inventories Inventories, which consist primarily of exhibit design and construction materials and supplies, as well as deferred show costs, including labor, show purchases, and commissions used in providing convention show services, are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out and specific identification methods) or market. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets: buildings, 15 to 40 years; equipment, 3 to 12 years; and leasehold improvements, over the shorter of the lease term or useful life. Property and equipment are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the long-lived asset may not be recoverable through undiscounted cash flows. Capitalized Software Viad capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred in developing or obtaining internal use software. Capitalized costs principally relate to costs incurred to purchase software from third parties, external direct costs of materials and services, and certain payroll-related costs for employees directly associated with software projects once application development begins. Costs associated with preliminary project activities, training, and other post-implementation activities are expensed as incurred. Capitalized software costs are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the software, ranging from three to ten years. These costs are included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Property and equipment, net.” Goodwill Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis as of October 31, and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. Viad uses a discounted expected future cash flow methodology (income approach) in order to estimate the fair value of its reporting units for purposes of goodwill impairment testing. The estimates and assumptions regarding expected future cash flows, discount rates, and terminal values require considerable judgment and are based on market conditions, financial forecasts, industry trends, and historical experience. These estimates, however, have inherent uncertainties and different assumptions could lead to materially different results. Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Viad has Company-owned life insurance contracts which are intended to fund the cost of certain employee compensation and benefit programs. These contracts are carried at cash surrender value, net of outstanding policy loans. The cash surrender value represents the amount of cash the Company could receive if the policies were discontinued before maturity. The changes in the cash surrender value of the policies, net of insurance premiums, are included as a component of “Costs of Services” in the consolidated statements of operations. Self-Insurance Liabilities Viad is self-insured up to certain limits for workers’ compensation, automobile, product and general liability, property loss, and medical claims. Viad has also retained certain liabilities related to workers’ compensation and general liability insurance claims in conjunction with previously sold operations. Provisions for losses for claims incurred, including estimated claims incurred but not yet reported, are made based on Viad’s prior historical experience, claims frequency, insurance coverage, and other factors. Viad has purchased insurance for amounts in excess of the self-insured levels. Environmental Remediation Liabilities Viad has retained certain liabilities representing the estimated cost of environmental remediation obligations primarily associated with previously sold operations. The amounts accrued primarily consist of the estimated direct incremental costs, on an undiscounted basis, for contractor and other services related to remedial actions and post-remediation site monitoring. Environmental remediation liabilities are recorded when the specific obligation is considered probable and the costs are reasonably estimable. Subsequent recoveries from third parties, if any, are recorded through discontinued operations when realized. The Company maintains environmental insurance that provides coverage for new and undiscovered pre-existing conditions at both its continuing and discontinued operations. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. Refer to Note 11 – Debt and Capital Lease Obligations for the estimated fair value of debt obligations. Foreign Currency Translation Viad conducts its foreign operations primarily in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and to a lesser extent, in certain other countries. The functional currency of Viad’s foreign subsidiaries is their local currency. Accordingly, for purposes of consolidation, Viad translates the assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at the foreign exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The unrealized gains or losses resulting from the translation of these foreign denominated assets and liabilities are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets. For purposes of consolidation, revenue, expenses, gains, and losses related to Viad’s foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average foreign exchange rates for the period. Revenue Recognition Viad recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. GES derives revenue primarily by providing show services to exhibitors participating in exhibitions and events and from the design, construction, and refurbishment of exhibit booths. Service revenue is recognized at the time services are completed. Service revenue from event accommodations services is recorded when services are completed and is net of commissions. Exhibits and environments revenue is accounted for using the completed-contract method. The Travel & Recreation Group generates revenue through its attractions, hotels, transportation, and sightseeing services. Revenue is recognized at the time services are performed. Share-Based Compensation Viad recognizes and measures compensation costs related to all share-based payment awards using the fair value method of accounting. These awards generally include restricted stock, stock options, and liability-based awards (including performance units and restricted stock units). These awards contain forfeiture and non-compete provisions. The fair value of restricted stock awards is based on Viad’s stock price on the date of grant. Viad issues restricted stock awards from shares held in treasury. Future vesting of restricted stock is generally subject to continued employment with Viad or its subsidiaries. Holders of restricted stock have the right to receive dividends and vote the shares, but may not sell, assign, transfer, pledge, or otherwise encumber the stock, except to the extent restrictions have lapsed. Restricted stock awards vest between three and five years from the date of grant. Share-based compensation expense related to restricted stock is recognized using the straight-line method over the requisite service period of approximately three years except for certain awards with a five-year vesting period whereby expense is recognized based on an accelerated multiple-award approach over a five-year period. For these awards, 40 percent of the shares vest on the third anniversary of the grant and the remaining shares vest in 30 percent increments over the subsequent two anniversary dates. Liability-based awards (including performance units and restricted stock units) are recorded at estimated fair value, based on the number of units expected to vest and the level of achievement of predefined performance goals, where applicable, and are remeasured on each balance sheet date based on Viad’s stock price, or the Monte Carlo simulation model, until the time of settlement. A Monte Carlo simulation requires the use of a number of assumptions, including historical volatility and correlation of the price of Viad’s stock and the price of the common shares of a comparator group, a risk-free rate of return, and an expected term. To the extent earned, liability-based awards are settled in cash based on Viad’s stock price. Compensation expense related to liability-based awards is recognized ratably over the requisite service period of approximately three years. The fair value of each stock option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Share-based compensation expense related to stock option awards is recognized using the straight-line method over the requisite service period of approximately five years. The exercise price of stock options is based on the market value of Viad’s common stock at the date of grant. Common Stock in Treasury Common stock purchased for treasury is recorded at historical cost. Subsequent share reissuances are primarily related to share-based compensation programs and recorded at weighted-average cost. Income Per Common Share Viad applies the two-class method in calculating income per common share as unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends are considered participating securities. Accordingly, such securities are included in the earnings allocation in calculating income per share. Historically, Viad has funded its matching contributions to employees’ 401(k) accounts through the Company’s leveraged Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) feature of the Company’s 401(k) defined contribution plan. ESOP shares are treated as outstanding for income per share calculations. During 2014, the Company depleted these shares and matching contributions are now funded from shares of Viad common stock held in treasury. Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements The following table provides a brief description of recent accounting pronouncements: Standard Description Date of adoption Effect on the financial statements Standards Not Yet Adopted ASU 2014-09 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) The standard establishes a new recognition model that requires revenue to be recognized in a manner to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received in exchange for those goods or services. The Company may adopt either retrospectively to each prior period presented with the option to elect certain practical expedients or with the cumulative effect recognized at the date of initial application and providing certain disclosures. January 1, 2018 The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of this new guidance on its financial position or results of operations, including the method of adoption to be used. ASU 2014-12 , Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) - Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide that a Performance Target Could be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period The amendment requires that a performance target that affects vesting, and that could be achieved after the requisite service period, be treated as a performance condition. As such, the performance target should not be reflected in estimating the grant date fair value of the award. January 1, 2016 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements. ASU 2015-03 , Interest - Imputation of Interest Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs ASU 2015-15 , Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements The amendments requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. For line-of-credit arrangements, an entity may defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement. January 1, 2016 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements or financial covenants. ASU 2015-11 , Inventory (Topic 330) - Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory The amendments apply to inventory measures using first-in, first-out or average cost and will require entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the normal course of business, minus the cost of completion, disposal and transportation. Replacement cost and net realizable value less a normal profit margin will no longer be considered. January 1, 2017 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements. ASU 2015-16 , Business Combinations (Topic 805) - Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments The amendment requires an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. January 1, 2016 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements. ASU 2016-02 , Leases (Topic 842) The amendment requires lessees to recognize on their balance sheet a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for leases with lease terms greater than one year. The amendment requires additional disclosures about leasing arrangements, and requires a modified retrospective approach to adoption. Early adoption is permitted. January 1, 2019 The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of this new guidance on its financial position or results of operations. Standards Recently Adopted ASU 2015-17 , Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes The amendment simplifies the presentation of deferred taxes by requiring all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. December 31, 2015 Early adopted on a retrospective basis. As a result, current deferred tax assets of $22.9 million were reclassified to non-current on the December 31, 2014 consolidated balance sheet.

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation	Note 2. Share-Based Compensation Viad grants share-based compensation awards to officers, directors, and certain key employees pursuant to the 2007 Viad Corp Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”). The 2007 Plan has a 10-year life and provides for the following types of awards: (a) incentive and non-qualified stock options; (b) restricted stock and restricted stock units; (c) performance units or performance shares; (d) stock appreciation rights; (e) cash-based awards; and (f) certain other stock-based awards. The number of shares of common stock available for grant under the 2007 Plan is limited to 1.7 million shares plus shares awarded under the 1997 Viad Corp Omnibus Incentive Plan (which terminated in May 2007) (the “1997 Plan”) that subsequently cease for any reason to be subject to such awards (other than by reason of exercise or settlement of the awards to the extent the shares are exercised for, or settled in, vested and non-forfeited shares) up to an aggregate maximum of 1.5 million shares. As of December 31, 2015, there were 959,330 total shares available for future grant. The following table summarizes share-based compensation expense: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Restricted stock $ 2,111 $ 2,495 $ 3,073 Performance unit incentive plan (“PUP”) 1,692 359 1,864 Restricted stock units 45 76 177 Stock options — — 107 Share-based compensation before income tax benefit 3,848 2,930 5,221 Income tax benefit (1,454 ) (1,102 ) (1,936 ) Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit $ 2,394 $ 1,828 $ 3,285 In addition, $45,000 of costs, $0.1 million of benefits, and $0.7 million of costs associated with share-based compensation were included in restructuring expense in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The 2015 amount of $45,000 related to restricted stock units. The 2014 amount of $0.1 million related to the reversal of expense of PUP awards. Of the 2013 amount, $0.3 million related to the restricted stock units and PUP awards. No share-based compensation costs were capitalized during 2015, 2014, or 2013. On January 24, 2014 and October 25, 2013, Viad’s Board of Directors declared special cash dividends of $1.50 and $2.50 per share, respectively, to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 7, 2014 and November 7, 2013, respectively. In accordance with the mandatory provisions of the 2007 Plan and the 1997 Plan, the Human Resources Committee of Viad’s Board of Directors approved equitable adjustments to outstanding long-term incentive awards of stock options and PUP awards issued pursuant to those plans in order to prevent the special dividends from diluting the rights of participants under those plans. The equitable adjustments to the outstanding stock options reduced the exercise price and increased the number of shares of common stock underlying such options. The equitable adjustment to the PUP awards reflects the effect of the special dividends, but will be paid only if certain performance goals are met at the end of the three-year performance period. The following table summarizes the activity of the outstanding share-based compensation awards: Restricted Stock PUP Awards Restricted Stock Units Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance, December 31, 2014 328,602 $ 23.30 267,120 $ 23.51 25,370 $ 23.17 Granted 92,850 $ 27.52 92,100 $ 27.30 4,800 $ 27.35 Vested (109,050 ) $ 20.51 (103,555 ) $ 20.60 (11,623 ) $ 20.91 Forfeited (33,185 ) $ 24.51 (24,500 ) $ 25.23 (2,100 ) $ 25.46 Balance, December 31, 2015 279,217 $ 25.65 231,165 $ 26.15 16,447 $ 25.69 The grant date fair value of restricted stock which vested during 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $2.2 million, $4.5 million, and $3.5 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, the unamortized cost of all outstanding restricted stock awards was $2.7 million, which Viad expects to recognize in the consolidated financial statements over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.4 years. During 2015, 2014, and 2013, the Company repurchased 35,649 shares for $1.0 million, 72,996 shares for $1.8 million and 50,156 shares for $1.3 million, respectively, related to tax withholding requirements on vested share-based awards. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had liabilities recorded of $2.4 million and $3.5 million, respectively, related to PUP awards. In March 2015, the PUP units granted in 2012 vested and cash payouts totaling $2.5 million were distributed. In March 2014, the PUP units granted in 2011 vested and cash payouts totaling $2.9 million were distributed. There were no cash settlements of PUP awards during 2013. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had aggregate liabilities recorded of $0.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively, related to restricted stock unit liability awards. In February 2015, portions of the 2010, 2011, and 2012 restricted stock unit awards vested and cash payouts totaling $0.3 million were distributed. Similarly, in February 2014 and 2013, portions of the 2010 and 2011 restricted stock unit awards vested and cash payouts of $0.2 million and $0.3 million were distributed, respectively. As discussed above, the equitable adjustment to the PUP awards reflects the effect of the special dividends, but would be paid only if certain performance goals are met at the end of the three-year performance period. This adjustment to the PUP awards did not impact the compensation expense recognized by the Company for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, or the unrecognized cost. The following table summarizes stock option activity: Shares Weighted- Average Exercise Price Options Exercisable Options outstanding at December 31, 2014 247,590 $ 17.82 247,590 Exercised (54,076 ) $ 16.62 Forfeited or expired (129,741 ) $ 18.91 Options outstanding at December 31, 2015 63,773 $ 16.62 63,773 As of December 31, 2015, there were no unrecognized costs related to non-vested stock option awards. No stock options were granted in 2015, 2014, or 2013. As discussed above, the equitable adjustments to the outstanding stock options resulting from the special cash dividends paid on February 14, 2014 and November 14, 2013 reduced the exercise price and increased the number of shares of common stock underlying such options. This adjustment to the exercise price and the number of shares did not impact the compensation expense recognized by the Company for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, or the unrecognized cost. As of December 31, 2015, there were 63,773 stock options outstanding and exercisable with a weighted-average exercise price of $16.62 and a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 3.2 years. Additional information pertaining to stock options is provided in the table below: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Total intrinsic value of stock options outstanding $ 740 $ 2,251 $ 2,723 Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised $ 1,474 $ 1,616 $ 1,611 Fair value of stock options vested $ — $ — $ 532 Cash received from the exercise of stock options $ 898 $ 1,155 $ 777 Tax benefits realized for tax deductions related to stock option exercises $ 104 $ 461 $ 404 The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding in the table above represents the difference between Viad’s closing stock price on December 31 of each year and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options. The intrinsic value of stock options outstanding therefore changes based on changes in the fair market value of Viad’s common stock.

Acquisition of Businesses

Acquisition of Businesses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition of Businesses	Note 3. Acquisition of Businesses West Glacier Properties In July 2014, the Company acquired the West Glacier Motel & Cabins, the Apgar Village Lodge and related land, food and beverage services, and retail operations (collectively, the “West Glacier Properties”). The purchase price was $16.5 million in cash with a working capital adjustment of $0.3 million related to certain current assets and liabilities. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of September 30, 2015. The following table summarizes the purchase price and opening balance sheet for the West Glacier Properties acquisition as of the acquisition date: (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 16,544 Working capital adjustment payable 320 Total purchase price 16,864 Fair value of net assets acquired: Prepaid expenses $ 24 Inventory 1,374 Property and equipment 14,510 Intangible assets 189 Total assets acquired 16,097 Accrued liabilities 35 Customer deposits 402 Other liabilities 64 Total liabilities acquired 501 Total fair value of net assets acquired 15,596 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 1,268 Under the acquisition method of accounting, the purchase price as shown in the table above is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is included in the Travel & Recreation Group and the primary factor that contributed to the purchase price resulting in the recognition of goodwill relates to future growth opportunities when combined with the Company’s other businesses. Goodwill is deductible for tax purposes over a period of 15 years. The estimated values of current assets and liabilities were based upon their historical costs on the date of acquisition due to their short-term nature. Transaction costs associated with the acquisition of the West Glacier Properties were $0.2 million in 2014 and were included in corporate activities in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Identified intangible assets acquired in the West Glacier Properties acquisition totaled $0.2 million and consist primarily of favorable lease contracts. The weighted-average amortization period related to the definite lived intangible assets is 3.5 years. The results of operations of the West Glacier Properties have been included in Viad’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. During 2014, revenue of $4.6 million and operating income of $1.5 million related to the West Glacier Properties were included in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Blitz In September 2014, the Company acquired Blitz Communications Group Limited and its affiliates (collectively, “Blitz”), which has offices in the United Kingdom and is a leading audio-visual staging and creative services provider for the live events industry in the United Kingdom and continental Europe. The purchase price was £15 million (approximately $24.4 million) in cash. The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of approximately $49,000 to property and equipment, $16,000 from intangible assets, $0.2 million from accrued lease obligations, $0.2 million to deferred taxes and $22,000 to goodwill. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, the balances in the table below as of December 31, 2015 remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of September 30, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 24,416 Cash acquired (190 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 24,226 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 264 Inventory 433 Prepaid expenses 410 Property and equipment 5,951 Intangible assets 8,692 Total assets acquired 15,750 Accounts payable 1,232 Accrued liabilities 2,246 Customer deposits 199 Deferred tax liability 468 Revolving credit facility 488 Accrued dilapidations 417 Total liabilities acquired 5,050 Total fair value of net assets acquired 10,700 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 13,526 Under the acquisition method of accounting, the purchase price as shown in the table above is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is included in the Marketing & Events International Segment and the primary factor that contributed to a purchase price resulting in the recognition of goodwill relates to future growth opportunities when combined with the Company’s other businesses. The estimated values of current assets and liabilities were based upon their historical costs on the date of acquisition due to their short-term nature. Transaction costs associated with the acquisition of Blitz were $0.8 million in 2014 and $0.1 million in 2015 and are included in corporate activities in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Identified intangible assets acquired in the Blitz acquisition totaled $8.7 million and consist of customer relationships, non-compete agreements, and trade name. The weighted-average amortization period related to the intangible assets is approximately 6.9 years. The results of operations of Blitz have been included in Viad’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. During 2014, revenue of $10.1 million and operating income of $0.4 million related to Blitz have been included in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. onPeak LLC In October 2014, the Company acquired onPeak LLC for a purchase price of $43.0 million in cash. Of the initial purchase price, $4.1 million was deposited at closing into escrow to secure post-closing purchase price adjustments, resolution of certain tax matters and other indemnity claims. onPeak LLC provides event accommodations services in North America to the live events industry. The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of approximately $0.2 million from other non-current assets, $0.2 million from intangible assets, $1.4 million to deferred taxes, $0.2 million from other liabilities, and $1.6 million to goodwill. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, as of December 31, 2015, the balances in the table below remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of December 31, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 42,950 Cash acquired (4,064 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 38,886 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 4,008 Prepaid expenses 640 Property and equipment 2,450 Other non-current assets 129 Intangible assets 14,100 Total assets acquired 21,327 Accounts payable 738 Accrued liabilities 3,341 Customer deposits 4,225 Deferred tax liability 3,028 Other liabilities 129 Total liabilities acquired 11,461 Total fair value of net assets acquired 9,866 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 29,020 Under the acquisition method of accounting, the purchase price as shown in the table above is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is included in the Marketing & Events U.S. Segment and the primary factor that contributed to a purchase price resulting in the recognition of goodwill relates to future growth opportunities when combined with the Company’s other businesses. Goodwill of $9.9 million is deductible for tax purposes over a period of 15 years. The estimated values of current assets and liabilities were based upon their historical costs on the date of acquisition due to their short-term nature. Transaction costs associated with the acquisition of onPeak LLC were $0.5 million in 2014 and $0.2 million in 2015 and are included in corporate activities in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Identified intangible assets acquired in the onPeak LLC acquisition totaled $14.1 million and consist primarily of customer relationships and trade name. The weighted-average amortization period related to the definite lived intangible assets is 9.9 years. The results of operations of onPeak LLC have been included in Viad’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. During 2014, revenue of $2.7 million and an operating loss of $0.7 million related to onPeak LLC have been included in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Travel Planners, Inc. In October 2014, the Company acquired Travel Planners, Inc. for a purchase price of $33.7 million in cash less a working capital adjustment of $0.3 million. Of the purchase price, $8.8 million was deposited at closing into escrow to secure post-closing purchase price adjustments, resolution of certain tax matters, and other indemnity claims. An additional amount of $0.9 million was paid during the third quarter of 2015 to Travel Planners, Inc. as a result of an election made by the Company to treat the purchase as an asset acquisition for tax purposes. Travel Planners, Inc. provides event accommodations services in North America to the live events industry. Travel Planners, Inc. was merged into onPeak LLC in January 2015. The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of $0.6 million from intangible assets, $0.4 million from additional purchase price payable upon tax election and $0.1 million from other accrued liabilities. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, the balances in the table below as of December 31, 2015 remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of December 31, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 33,674 Additional purchase price paid for tax election 896 Working capital adjustment (279 ) Cash acquired (4,204 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 30,087 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 1,450 Prepaid expenses 120 Property and equipment 93 Intangible assets 14,400 Total assets acquired 16,063 Accounts payable 488 Accrued liabilities 1,557 Customer deposits 4,525 Total liabilities acquired 6,570 Total fair value of net assets acquired 9,493 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 20,594 Under the acquisition method of accounting, the purchase price as shown in the table above is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. The goodwill is included in the Marketing & Events U.S. Segment and the primary factor that contributed to a purchase price resulting in the recognition of goodwill relates to future growth opportunities when combined with the Company’s other businesses. The goodwill is deductible for tax purposes over a period of 15 years. The estimated values of current assets and liabilities were based upon their historical costs on the date of acquisition due to their short-term nature. Transaction costs associated with the acquisition of Travel Planners, Inc. were $0.5 million in 2014 and $0.2 million in 2015 and are included in corporate activities in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Identified intangible assets acquired in the Travel Planners, Inc. acquisition totaled $14.4 million and consist primarily of customer relationships, favorable lease contracts and trade name. The weighted-average amortization period related to the definite lived intangible assets is 9.8 years. The results of operations of Travel Planners, Inc. have been included in Viad’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. During 2014, revenue of $3.4 million and operating income of $0.5 million related to Travel Planners, Inc. have been included in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. N200 In November 2014, the Company acquired N200 Limited and its affiliates (collectively, “N200”) for €9.7 million (approximately $12.1 million) in cash, plus an earnout payment (the “Earnout”) of up to €1.0 million. The amount of the Earnout was based on N200’s achievement of established financial targets for the twelve-month period ended June 30, 2015. N200 exceeded those financial targets and, consequently, on October 5, 2015, the Company paid the full €1.0 million (approximately $1.1 million) Earnout to the former owners of N200. N200, which has offices in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, is a leading event registration and data intelligence services provider for the live events industry in continental Europe. The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of $0.1 million from contingent consideration, $0.5 million to working capital adjustment, $15,000 from accounts receivable, $0.1 million to intangible assets, $0.1 million to accrued liabilities, $0.1 million to deferred taxes and $0.4 million to goodwill. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, the balances in the table below as of December 31, 2015 remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of December 31, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 12,068 Working capital adjustment 458 Contingent consideration 1,145 Cash acquired (943 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 12,728 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 1,732 Inventory 46 Prepaid expenses 115 Property and equipment 1,280 Intangible assets 3,682 Total assets acquired 6,855 Accounts payable 421 Accrued liabilities 1,057 Customer deposits 569 Deferred tax liability 986 Other liabilities 106 Total liabilities acquired 3,139 Total fair value of net assets acquired 3,716 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 9,012 Under the acquisition method of accounting, the purchase price as shown in the table above is allocated to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is included in the Marketing & Events International Segment and the primary factor that contributed to a purchase price resulting in the recognition of goodwill relates to future growth opportunities when combined with the Company’s other businesses. The estimated values of current assets and liabilities were based upon their historical costs on the date of acquisition due to their short-term nature. Transaction costs associated with the acquisition of N200 were $1.0 million in 2014 and $0.2 million in 2015 and are included in corporate activities in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Identified intangible assets acquired in the N200 acquisition totaled $3.7 million and consist primarily of customer relationships. The weighted-average amortization period related to the definite lived intangible assets is 7.4 years. The results of operations of N200 have been included in Viad’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. During 2014, revenue of $0.4 million and an operating loss of $0.2 million related to N200 have been included in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Resource Creative Limited In February 2013, Viad acquired the assets of Resource Creative Limited (“RCL”) for $0.6 million in cash. RCL is a United Kingdom-based company specializing in providing creative graphic services to the exhibition, events, and retail markets throughout the United Kingdom and continental Europe. The purchase price was subject to certain adjustments, plus a deferred payment of up to approximately £0.2 million, which was contingent upon RCL’s achievement of certain net revenue targets between the acquisition date and December 31, 2014. RCL exceeded the net revenue targets for the period ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 and, consequently, deferred payment installments in the amount of $0.1 million (£0.1 million) and $0.2 million (£0.1 million), respectively, were paid in January 2015 and March 2014, respectively. Supplementary pro forma financial information The following table summarizes the unaudited pro forma results of operations attributable to Viad, assuming the above acquisitions had each been completed on January 1, 2013: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2014 2013 Revenue $ 1,109,629 $ 1,015,275 Depreciation and amortization $ 38,014 $ 38,981 Income from continuing operations $ 44,636 $ 15,317 Net income attributable to Viad $ 55,833 $ 17,510 Diluted net income per share $ 2.77 $ 0.86 Basic net income per share $ 2.77 $ 0.86 Pro forma net income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was adjusted to exclude transaction costs associated with the acquisitions of Blitz, the West Glacier Properties, onPeak LLC, Travel Planners, Inc., and N200, which totaled $3.0 million in 2014 and $0.6 million in 2015. These costs were included in the pro forma net income for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Note 4. Inventories The components of inventories consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Raw materials $ 14,383 $ 16,749 Work in process 13,146 15,652 Inventories $ 27,529 $ 32,401

Other Current Assets

Other Current Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Note 5. Other Current Assets Other current assets consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Income tax receivable $ 4,643 $ 1,869 Prepaid vendor payments 2,140 2,689 Prepaid software maintenance 2,026 1,934 Prepaid insurance 2,024 2,170 Prepaid rent 1,406 186 Prepaid taxes 1,261 1,416 Prepaid other 2,777 4,427 Other 1,034 2,749 Other current assets $ 17,311 $ 17,440

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Note 6. Property and Equipment Property and equipment consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Land and land interests $ 29,032 $ 30,360 Buildings and leasehold improvements 135,381 138,104 Equipment and other 270,957 319,435 Gross property and equipment 435,370 487,899 Accumulated depreciation (246,131 ) (288,328 ) Property and equipment, net $ 189,239 $ 199,571 Included in the “Equipment and other” caption above are capitalized costs incurred in developing or obtaining internal use software. The net carrying amount of capitalized software was $12.3 million and $17.0 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Included in the “Land and land interests” caption above are certain leasehold interests in land within the Travel & Recreation Group for which the Company is considered to have perpetual use rights. The carrying amount of these leasehold interests was $7.7 million and $9.1 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. These land interests are not subject to amortization. Depreciation expense was $28.1 million for both 2015 and 2014 and $27.4 million for 2013. During 2015, Viad recorded an impairment charge of $0.1 million related to the write-off of certain software in the Travel & Recreation Group. During 2014 and 2013, Viad recorded impairment charges of $0.9 million and $1.0 million, respectively, at the Marketing & Events Group, primarily related to the write off of certain internally developed software. These impairment losses are included in the consolidated statements of operations under the caption “Other impairment charges.”

Other Investments and Assets

Other Investments and Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments All Other Investments [Abstract]
Other Investments and Assets	Note 7. Other Investments and Assets Other investments and assets consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Cash surrender value of life insurance $ 21,970 $ 20,866 Self-insured liability receivable 5,979 7,728 Workers’ compensation insurance security deposits 4,250 4,250 Other mutual funds 2,192 2,536 Unamortized debt issuance costs 1,572 1,964 Other 3,240 3,330 Total other investments and assets $ 39,203 $ 40,674

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Note 8. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were as follows: (in thousands) Marketing & Events U.S. Segment Marketing & Events International Segment Travel & Recreation Group Total Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 62,686 $ 22,611 $ 44,246 $ 129,543 Acquisition of Blitz — 13,504 — 13,504 Acquisition of the West Glacier Properties — — 1,268 1,268 Acquisition of onPeak LLC 27,406 — — 27,406 Acquisition of Travel Planners, Inc. 20,526 — — 20,526 Acquisition of N200 — 8,563 — 8,563 Foreign currency translation adjustments — (2,457 ) (4,156 ) (6,613 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 110,618 42,221 41,358 194,197 Purchase price allocation adjustments 1,682 475 — 2,157 Foreign currency translation adjustments — (3,488 ) (7,070 ) (10,558 ) Disposals (1) — (573 ) — (573 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 112,300 $ 38,635 $ 34,288 $ 185,223 (1) During 2015, the Company partially disposed of certain operations associated with a venue services contract within the Marketing & Events International Segment. Accordingly, goodwill of $0.6 million was included in the carrying amount of those operations, and a loss of $23,000 was recorded in income from continuing operations related to the disposal. The following table summarizes goodwill by reporting unit and segment: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Marketing & Events Group: Marketing & Events U.S. Segment $ 112,300 $ 110,618 Marketing & Events International Segment: GES EMEA 32,064 34,396 GES Canada 6,571 7,825 Total Marketing & Events Group 150,935 152,839 Travel & Recreation Group: Brewster 29,836 36,906 Alaska Denali Travel 3,184 3,184 Glacier Park 1,268 1,268 Total Travel & Recreation Group 34,288 41,358 Total Goodwill $ 185,223 $ 194,197 Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis as of October 31, and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. For the Marketing & Events U.S. Segment, goodwill is assigned to and tested at the operating segment level. For the Marketing & Events International Segment, goodwill is assigned to and tested based on the segment’s geographical operations (GES EMEA and GES Canada). For the Travel & Recreation Group, impairment testing is performed at the reporting unit level (Brewster, Alaska Denali Travel, and Glacier Park). As a result of the Company’s most recent impairment analysis performed as of October 31, 2015, the excess of the estimated fair value over the carrying value (expressed as a percentage of the carrying amounts) under step one of the impairment test for each of the Marketing & Events Group’s reporting units in the U.S., GES EMEA, and GES Canada was 146 percent, 132 percent, and 91 percent, respectively. For the Brewster, Alaska Denali Travel, and Glacier Park reporting units, the excess of the estimated fair value over the carrying value was 146 percent, 48 percent, and 10 percent, respectively. Viad’s accumulated goodwill impairments were $229.7 million for both 2015 and 2014. Intangible assets consisted of the following as of the respective periods: December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Amortized intangible assets: Customer contracts and relationships $ 38,342 $ (7,814 ) $ 30,528 Other 4,401 (2,067 ) 2,334 Total amortized intangible assets 42,743 (9,881 ) 32,862 Unamortized intangible assets: Business licenses 460 — 460 Total $ 43,203 $ (9,881 ) $ 33,322 December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Amortized intangible assets: Customer contracts and relationships $ 41,624 $ (2,961 ) $ 38,663 Other 4,576 (732 ) 3,844 Total amortized intangible assets 46,200 (3,693 ) 42,507 Unamortized intangible assets: Business licenses 460 — 460 Total $ 46,660 $ (3,693 ) $ 42,967 Intangible asset amortization expense was $7.2 million, $2.7 million, and $1.3 million for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. The weighted-average amortization period of customer contracts and relationships and other amortizable intangible assets is approximately 8.2 years and 3.1 years, respectively. Estimated future amortization expense related to amortized intangible assets is as follows: (in thousands) Year ending December 31, 2016 $ 6,303 2017 5,492 2018 4,536 2019 4,155 2020 3,616 Thereafter 8,760 Total $ 32,862

Other Current Liabilities

Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Current [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities	Note 9. Other Current Liabilities Other current liabilities consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Continuing operations: Self-insured liability accrual $ 6,891 $ 6,297 Accrued sales and use taxes 4,772 3,624 Accrued employee benefit costs 3,892 3,215 Accrued dividends 2,103 2,107 Deferred rent 548 896 Current portion of pension liability 1,768 1,729 Accrued restructuring 1,757 1,154 Accrued rebates 752 1,600 Accrued professional fees 751 1,228 Accrued foreign income taxes 986 2,370 Other 4,002 2,636 Total continuing operations 28,222 26,856 Discontinued operations: Environmental remediation liabilities 295 350 Self-insured liability accrual 200 173 Other 521 408 Total discontinued operations 1,016 931 Total other current liabilities $ 29,238 $ 27,787

Other Deferred Items and Liabil

Other Deferred Items and Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Deferred Liabilities	Note 10. Other Deferred Items and Liabilities Other deferred items and liabilities consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Continuing operations: Self-insured liability $ 13,662 $ 13,525 Accrued compensation 7,612 6,824 Self-insured excess liability 5,979 7,728 Deferred rent 5,607 3,939 Foreign deferred tax liability 2,384 2,135 Accrued restructuring 519 555 Other 1,262 3,965 Total continuing operations 37,025 38,671 Discontinued operations: Environmental remediation liabilities 4,177 4,395 Self-insured liability 3,986 4,327 Accrued income taxes 1,151 1,119 Other 997 1,250 Total discontinued operations 10,311 11,091 Total other deferred items and liabilities $ 47,336 $ 49,762

Debt and Capital Lease Obligati

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Capital Lease Obligation	Note 11. Debt and Capital Lease Obligations The components of long-term debt and capital lease obligations consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands, except interest rates) 2015 2014 Revolving credit facility and term loan 2.4% and 2.4% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2019 (1) $ 127,500 $ 139,500 Capital lease obligations, 6.1% and 6.0% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2018 1,475 1,520 Total debt 128,975 141,020 Current portion (34,554 ) (27,856 ) Long-term debt and capital lease obligations $ 94,421 $ 113,164 (1) Represents the weighted-average interest rate in effect at December 31 for revolving credit facility and term loan borrowings, including any applicable margin. The interest rates do not include amortization of debt issuance costs or commitment fees. Effective December 22, 2014, Viad entered into a $300 million Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement amended and replaced in its entirety the Company’s $180 million revolving credit facility under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of May 18, 2011. The Credit Agreement provides for a senior credit facility in the aggregate amount of $300 million, which consists of a $175 million revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) and a $125 million term loan (the “Term Loan”). Loans under the Credit Agreement have a maturity date of December 22, 2019. Proceeds from the loans made under the Credit Agreement were used to refinance certain outstanding debt of the Company and will be used for the Company’s general corporate purposes in the ordinary course of its business. Under the Credit Agreement, the Revolving Credit Facility and/or the Term Loan may be increased up to an additional $100 million under certain circumstances. If such circumstances are met, the Company may obtain the additional borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility, the Term Loan, or a combination of the two facilities. The Revolving Credit Facility has a $40 million sublimit for letters of credit. Borrowings and letters of credit can be denominated in U.S. dollars, Euros, Canadian dollars, or British pounds. Viad’s lenders under the Credit Agreement have a first perfected security interest in all of the personal property of Viad, GES and GES Event Intelligence Services, Inc., including 65 percent of the capital stock of top-tier foreign subsidiaries. Effective February 24, 2016, the Credit Agreement was amended to modify the terms of the financial covenants and the negative covenants related to acquisitions, restricted payments, and indebtedness. Prior to this amendment to the Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement Amendment”), the financial covenants included a fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 1.75 to 1.00, with a step-up to 2.00 to 1.00 for the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2016. Viad was required to maintain a leverage ratio of not greater than 3.00 to 1.00, with a step-down to 2.75 to 1.00 from January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016 and a step-down to 2.50 to 1.00 thereafter. Acquisitions in the same or related lines of business were permitted if the leverage ratio, on a pro forma basis, was less than or equal to 2.50 to 1.00 for acquisitions consummated on or prior to December 31, 2015, and 2.25 to 1.00 for acquisitions consummated between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016, and 2.00 to 1.00 for acquisitions consummated thereafter. Viad was allowed to pay dividends or repurchase the Company’s common stock up to $20 million in the aggregate in any calendar year, but additional dividends, share repurchases or distributions of stock were permitted only if the Company’s leverage ratio was less than or equal to 2.00 to 1.00, the liquidity amount (defined as cash in the U.S. and Canada plus available revolver borrowings on a pro forma basis) was not less than $100 million, and no default or unmatured default, as defined in the Credit Agreement, existed. As of December 31, 2015, the fixed charge coverage ratio was 2.18 to 1.00, the leverage ratio was 1.67 to 1.00, and Viad was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement. Under the Credit Agreement Amendment, the scheduled limit decrease for the Company’s overall leverage ratio, as well as the scheduled limit increase for the fixed charge coverage ratio, as those terms are defined in the Credit Agreement, were eliminated. The overall leverage ratio and fixed charge coverage ratio are now 3.50 to 1.00 and 1.75 to 1.00, respectively, and will remain at those levels for the entire remaining term of the Credit Agreement. Acquisitions in substantially the same or related lines of business are permitted under the Credit Agreement Amendment, as long as the pro forma leverage ratio is less than or equal to 3.00 to 1.00. Viad can still make dividends, distributions, and repurchases of its common stock up to $20 million per calendar year. Stock dividends, distributions, and repurchases above the $20 million limit are no longer subject to a liquidity covenant, and are permitted as long as the Company’s pro forma leverage ratio is less than or equal to 2.50 to 1.00 and no default or unmatured default, as defined in the Credit Agreement, exists. Unsecured debt is also allowed as long as the Company’s pro forma leverage ratio is less than or equal to 3.00 to 1.00. Significant other covenants under the Credit Agreement that remain unchanged by the Credit Agreement Amendment include limitations on investments, sales/leases of assets, consolidations or mergers, and liens on property. As of December 31, 2015, Viad’s total debt was $129.0 million, consisting of outstanding borrowings under the Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility of $112.5 million and $15.0 million, respectively, and capital lease obligations of $1.5 million. As of December 31, 2015, Viad had $158.7 million of capacity remaining under its Credit Facility reflecting outstanding letters of credit of $1.3 million. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility (of which GES and GES Event Intelligence Services, Inc. are guarantors) are indexed to the prime rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate, plus appropriate spreads tied to Viad’s leverage ratio. Commitment fees and letters of credit fees are also tied to Viad’s leverage ratio. The fees on the unused portion of the Credit Facility are currently 0.35 percent annually. As of December 31, 2015, Viad had certain obligations under guarantees to third parties on behalf of its subsidiaries. These guarantees are not subject to liability recognition in the consolidated financial statements and relate to leased facilities entered into by the Company’s subsidiary operations. The Company would generally be required to make payments to the respective third parties under these guarantees in the event that the related subsidiary could not meet its own payment obligations. The maximum potential amount of future payments that Viad would be required to make under all guarantees existing as of December 31, 2015 would be $10.4 million. These guarantees relate to leased facilities and expire through March 2021. There are no recourse provisions that would enable Viad to recover from third parties any payments made under the guarantees. Furthermore, there are no collateral or similar arrangements whereby Viad could recover payments. Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations as of December 31, 2015 are as follows: (in thousands) Revolving Credit Agreement Capital Lease Obligations Year ending December 31, 2016 $ 33,750 $ 926 2017 18,750 570 2018 18,750 207 2019 56,250 — 2020 — — Total $ 127,500 $ 1,703 Less: Amount representing interest (228 ) Present value of minimum lease payments $ 1,475 The gross amount of assets recorded under capital leases and accumulated amortization as of December 31, 2015 was $3.5 million and $2.1, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, the gross amount of assets recorded under capital leases and accumulated amortization was $3.5 million and $2.1 million, respectively. The amortization charges related to assets recorded under capital leases are included in depreciation expense. Refer to Note 6 - Property and Equipment. The weighted-average interest rate on total debt (including amortization of debt issuance costs and commitment fees) was 3.2 percent, 4.0 percent and 4.2 percent for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. The estimated fair value of total debt was $113.9 million and $123.0 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The fair value of debt was estimated by discounting the future cash flows using rates currently available for debt of similar terms and maturity.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Note 12. Fair Value Measurements The fair value of an asset or liability is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value guidance requires an entity to maximize the use of quoted prices and other observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value, and also establishes a fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value as follows: · Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. · Level 2 - Observable inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. · Level 3 - Unobservable inputs to the valuation methodology that are significant to the measurement of fair value. Viad measures its money market mutual funds and certain other mutual fund investments at fair value on a recurring basis using Level 1 inputs. The fair value information related to these assets is summarized in the following tables: Fair (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Money market funds $ 118 $ 118 $ — $ — Other mutual funds 2,192 2,192 — — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 2,310 $ 2,310 $ — $ — Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Money market funds $ 8,518 $ 8,518 $ — $ — Other mutual funds 2,536 2,536 — — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 11,054 $ 11,054 $ — $ — Liabilities: Earnout contingent consideration liability (1,210 ) — — (1,210 ) Total liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis $ (1,210 ) $ — $ — $ (1,210 ) As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had investments in money market mutual funds of $0.1 million and $8.5 million, respectively, which are included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Cash and cash equivalents.” These investments are classified as available-for-sale and were recorded at fair value. There have been no realized gains or losses related to these investments and the Company has not experienced any redemption restrictions with respect to any of the money market mutual funds. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had investments in other mutual funds of $2.2 million and $2.5 million, respectively, which are classified in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Other investments and assets.” These investments were classified as available-for-sale and were recorded at fair value. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, there were unrealized gains of $0.6 million ($0.3 million after-tax) and $0.8 million ($0.5 million after-tax), respectively, which were included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).” The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. The estimated fair value of debt obligations is disclosed in Note 11 – Debt and Capital Lease Obligations.

Income (Loss) Per Share

Income (Loss) Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (Loss) Per Share	Note 13. Income Per Share The components of basic and diluted income per share are as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2015 2014 2013 Net income attributable to Viad (diluted) $ 26,606 $ 52,354 $ 21,555 Less: Allocation to non-vested shares (385 ) (970 ) (485 ) Net income allocated to Viad common stockholders (basic) $ 26,221 $ 51,384 $ 21,070 Basic weighted-average outstanding common shares 19,797 19,804 19,850 Additional dilutive shares related to share-based compensation 184 329 415 Diluted weighted-average outstanding shares 19,981 20,133 20,265 Income per share: Basic income attributable to Viad common stockholders $ 1.32 $ 2.59 $ 1.06 Diluted income attributable to Viad common stockholders (1) $ 1.32 $ 2.59 $ 1.06 (1) Diluted income per share amount cannot exceed basic income per share. Options to purchase 4,000, 26,000 and 47,000 shares of common stock were outstanding during 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, but were not included in the computation of dilutive shares outstanding because the effect would be anti-dilutive.

Employee Stock Ownership Featur

Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401(k) Plan	Note 14. Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401(k) Plan Viad has historically funded its matching contributions to employees’ 401(k) accounts through the Company’s ESOP portion of the Viad Corp Capital Accumulation Plan (the “401(k) Plan”). During 2014, the Company depleted these shares and matching contributions are now funded from shares of Viad common stock held in treasury. All eligible employees of Viad and its participating affiliates, other than certain employees covered by collective-bargaining agreements that do not expressly provide for participation of such employees in an employee stock ownership plan, may participate in the employee stock ownership feature within the 401(k) Plan. In 1989, the ESOP borrowed $40.0 million (guaranteed by Viad) to purchase treasury shares from the Company. In 2004, Viad borrowed $12.2 million under its revolving credit agreement to pay in full the outstanding ESOP loan and obtain release of Viad from its guarantee of the loan. In connection with the loan payoff, the ESOP entered into a $12.4 million loan with Viad maturing in June 2009 calling for minimum quarterly principal payments of $250,000 plus interest. The same amount, representing unearned employee benefits, was recorded as a reduction of stockholders’ equity. In 2007, the loan agreement between the ESOP and Viad was extended to December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has fully paid off the ESOP loan. For prior years, the loan liability is included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Unearned employee benefits and other.” The liability was reduced as the ESOP made principal payments on the borrowing, and the amount offsetting stockholders’ equity was reduced as stock was allocated to employees and benefits were charged to expense. The 401(k) Plan repaid the loan using Viad contributions and dividends received on the unallocated Viad shares held by the 401(k) Plan. Information regarding ESOP transactions is as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2014 2013 Amounts paid by ESOP for: Debt repayment $ 44 $ 1,280 Interest $ — $ 1 Amounts received from Viad as: Contributions $ 44 $ 1,202 Dividends $ — $ 79 Shares were released for allocation to participants based upon the ratio of the current year’s principal and interest payments to the sum of the total principal and interest payments expected over the remaining life of the loan. Viad recorded expense of less than $0.1 million in 2014 and $1.3 million in 2013. There were no unallocated shares held by the 401(k) Plan as of December 31, 2014 and unallocated shares held by the 401(k) Plan totaled 4,361 as of December 31, 2013. In January 2014, the 4,361 shares remaining in the ESOP as of December 31, 2013 were fully exhausted. Matching contributions on employee deferrals for the remainder of 2014 were made from shares held in treasury. Shares allocated during 2013 totaled 126,216.

Preferred Stock Purchase Rights

Preferred Stock Purchase Rights	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Preferred Stock Purchase Rights	Note 15. Preferred Stock Purchase Rights Viad has authorized five million and two million shares of Preferred Stock and Junior Participating Preferred Stock, respectively, none of which was outstanding on December 31, 2015. On February 28, 2013, Viad’s shareholder rights plan (the “Rights Agreement”), as adjusted in connection with Viad’s one-for-four reverse stock split on July 1, 2004, and as amended on February 28, 2012, terminated on its own terms and the Preferred Stock Purchase Rights issued pursuant to the Rights Agreement expired.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Note 16. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component are as follows: (in thousands) Unrealized Gains on Investments Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Unrecognized Net Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Credit, Net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 429 $ 30,847 $ (11,259 ) $ 20,017 Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 98 (18,432 ) — (18,334 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax (56 ) — (2,021 ) (2,077 ) Net other comprehensive income (loss) 42 (18,432 ) (2,021 ) (20,411 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 471 $ 12,415 $ (13,280 ) $ (394 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications (55 ) (35,672 ) 1,546 (34,181 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax (70 ) — 469 399 Net other comprehensive income (loss) (125 ) (35,672 ) 2,015 (33,782 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 346 $ (23,257 ) $ (11,265 ) $ (34,176 ) The following table presents information about reclassification adjustments out of AOCI: Year Ended December 31, Affected Line Item in the Statement Where Net Income is Presented (in thousands) 2015 2014 Unrealized gains on investments $ (112 ) $ (90 ) Income income Tax effect 42 34 Income taxes $ (70 ) $ (56 ) Recognized net actuarial (gain) loss (1) $ 1,180 $ (3,821 ) Amortization of prior service credit (1) (552 ) 565 Tax effect (159 ) 1,235 Income taxes $ 469 $ (2,021 ) (1) Amount included in pension expense. Refer to Note 18 – Pension and Postretirement Benefits.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 17. Income Taxes Earnings before income taxes from continuing operations consist of the following: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Foreign $ 35,571 $ 33,349 $ 25,010 United States 2,364 7,938 2,620 Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 37,935 $ 41,287 $ 27,630 Significant components of the income tax provision from continuing operations are as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Current: United States: Federal $ (876 ) $ — $ (3,308 ) State 1,558 16 (286 ) Foreign 9,342 9,824 9,606 Total current 10,024 9,840 6,012 Deferred: United States: Federal 1,854 (9,486 ) 2,007 State (164 ) (125 ) 651 Foreign (1,221 ) (120 ) (360 ) Total deferred 469 (9,731 ) 2,298 Income tax expense $ 10,493 $ 109 $ 8,310 The Company is subject to income tax in jurisdictions in which it operates. A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective tax rate of the Company for the years 2013 – 2015 is as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Computed income tax expense at statutory federal income tax rate of 35% $ 13,277 35.0 % $ 14,450 35.0 % $ 9,670 35.0 % State income taxes, net of federal provision 1,713 4.5 % 227 0.5 % 345 1.2 % Foreign tax rate differentials (1,181 ) (3.1 )% (1,262 ) (3.1 )% 77 0.3 % U.S. tax on foreign earnings (net of foreign tax credits) (948 ) (2.5 )% (2,168 ) (5.3 )% (1,831 ) (6.6 )% Change in valuation allowance (944 ) (2.5 )% (11,650 ) (28.2 )% (2,184 ) (7.9 )% Proceeds from life insurance — — (133 ) (0.3 )% (196 ) (0.7 )% Return to provision and other adjustments (1,557 ) (4.1 )% (1,401 ) (3.4 )% 1,664 6.0 % Other, net 133 0.4 % 2,046 5.0 % 765 2.8 % Income tax expense $ 10,493 27.7 % $ 109 0.2 % $ 8,310 30.1 % The components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheets are as follows: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Tax credit carryforwards $ 19,529 $ 21,783 Pension, compensation, and other employee benefits 23,212 23,501 Provisions for losses 11,119 12,127 Net operating loss carryforward 4,310 4,886 State income taxes 2,944 2,979 Other deferred income tax assets 3,456 3,927 Total deferred tax assets 64,570 69,203 Valuation allowance (2,837 ) (3,781 ) Foreign deferred tax assets included above (2,460 ) (1,536 ) Net deferred tax assets 59,273 63,886 Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment (3,510 ) (5,856 ) Deferred tax related to life insurance (5,316 ) (4,962 ) Goodwill and other intangible assets (4,038 ) (2,705 ) Other deferred income tax liabilities (1,115 ) (1,452 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (13,979 ) (14,975 ) Foreign deferred tax liabilities included above 3,471 3,671 United States net deferred tax assets $ 48,765 $ 52,582 In accordance with ASU 2015-17, all of the Company’s deferred tax assets are reflected as non-current. The Company applied ASU 2015-17 on a retrospective basis. As a result, current deferred tax assets of $22.9 million were reclassified to non-current on the December 31, 2014 consolidated balance sheet. Refer to Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further information. The Company uses significant judgment in forming conclusions regarding the recoverability of its deferred tax assets and evaluates all available positive and negative evidence to determine if it is more-likely-than-not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. To the extent recovery does not appear likely, a valuation allowance must be recorded. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had gross deferred tax assets of $64.6 million and $69.2 million, respectively. These deferred tax assets reflect the expected future tax benefits to be realized upon reversal of deductible temporary differences, and the utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. As of December 31, 2015, the Company has foreign tax credit carryforwards of $9.2 million. The credits are subject to a 10-year carryforward period. Of the $9.2 million, $1.0 million will expire in 2020, $6.0 million will expire in 2021, $0.3 million will expire in 2022, and $1.9 million will expire in 2023. As of December 31, 2015, Viad had tax credit carryforwards related to alternative minimum tax of $10.3 million that may be carried forward indefinitely. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had gross state and foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $56.0 million and $75.8 million, respectively, for which the Company had deferred tax assets of $4.3 million and $4.9 million, respectively. The state and foreign net operating loss carryforwards expire on various dates from 2016 through 2035. During 2015, the Company decreased its valuation allowance related to state and foreign net operating loss carryforwards by $0.8 million and $0.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had a valuation allowance of $2.8 million and $3.8 million related to state and foreign net operating loss carryforwards, respectively. While management believes that the deferred tax assets, net of existing valuation allowances will be utilized in future periods, there are inherent uncertainties regarding the ultimate realization of these assets. It is possible that the relative weight of positive and negative evidence regarding the realization of deferred tax assets may change, which could result in a material increase or decrease in the Company’s valuation allowance. Such a change could result in a material increase or decrease to income tax expense in the period the assessment was made. Viad has not recorded deferred taxes on certain historical unremitted earnings of its subsidiaries located in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands as management intends to reinvest those earnings in its operations. As of December 31, 2015, the incremental unrecognized tax liability (net of estimated foreign tax credits) related to those undistributed earnings was approximately $3.4 million. To the extent that circumstances change and it becomes apparent that some or all of those undistributed earnings will be remitted to the U.S., Viad would accrue income taxes attributable to such remittance. Viad exercises judgment in determining its income tax provision when the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Viad classifies liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions as non-current liabilities in its consolidated balance sheets unless they are expected to be paid within the next year. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company had liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions (including interest and penalties) of $1.5 million and $2.4 million, respectively, which were classified as non-current liabilities. During 2015, the Company recognized a net decrease in the liability for uncertain tax positions for continuing operations of approximately $1.0 million. As of December 31, 2015, Viad had no accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions for continuing operations which are classified as a component of income tax expense. The tax expense impact of the change in uncertain tax positions was a benefit of $0.3 million after restoration of the deferrals that the uncertain tax positions were previously offset against. The Company does not expect any material positions will be resolved or settled during 2016. The Company had accrued liabilities for uncertain tax positions for discontinued operations of $0.6 million and accrued interest and penalties of $0.5 million as of both December 31, 2015 and 2014. Future tax resolutions or settlements that may occur related to these uncertain tax positions would be recorded through discontinued operations (net of tax, if applicable). The Company does not expect the discontinued operations uncertain tax positions to be resolved or settled within the next twelve months. A reconciliation of the liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions (excluding interest and penalties) is as follows: (in thousands) Continuing Operations Discontinued Operations Total Balance at December 31, 2012 $ — $ 636 $ 636 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years 736 — 736 Balance at December 31, 2013 736 636 1,372 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years 1,019 — 1,019 Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes (472 ) — (472 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 1,283 636 1,919 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years 43 — 43 Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years (666 ) — (666 ) Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes (353 ) — (353 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 307 $ 636 $ 943 Viad is subject to regular and recurring audits by taxing authorities in jurisdictions in which the Company currently operates or has operated in the past. This includes the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands. Viad’s 2012 through 2015 U.S. federal tax years and various state tax years from 2011 through 2015 remain subject to income tax examinations by tax authorities. The 2006, 2008, and 2010 federal tax years remain subject to adjustment to the extent of federal net operating loss carryback claims. Tax years 2011 through 2015 remain subject to examination by various foreign taxing jurisdictions.

Pension and Postretirement Bene

Pension and Postretirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension and Postretirement Benefits	Note 18. Pension and Postretirement Benefits Domestic Plans. Viad has trusteed, frozen defined benefit pension plans that cover certain employees which are funded by the Company. Viad also maintains certain unfunded defined benefit pension plans which provide supplemental benefits to select management employees. These plans use traditional defined benefit formulas based on years of service and final average compensation. Funding policies provide that payments to defined benefit pension trusts shall be at least equal to the minimum funding required by applicable regulations. Viad also has certain defined benefit postretirement plans that provide medical and life insurance for certain eligible employees, retirees, and dependents. The related postretirement benefit liabilities are recognized over the period that services are provided by employees. In addition, Viad retained the obligations for these benefits for retirees of certain sold businesses. While the plans have no funding requirements, Viad may fund the plans. The components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income of Viad’s pension plans included the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 101 $ 87 $ 66 Interest cost 1,018 1,079 1,030 Expected return on plan assets (380 ) (436 ) (400 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 492 407 583 Net periodic benefit cost 1,231 1,137 1,279 Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: Net actuarial loss (gain) (963 ) 3,418 (2,565 ) Reversal of amortization item: Net actuarial loss (492 ) (407 ) (583 ) Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (1,455 ) 3,011 (3,148 ) Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ (224 ) $ 4,148 $ (1,869 ) The components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income of Viad’s postretirement benefit plans included the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 152 $ 129 $ 156 Interest cost 619 640 663 Expected return on plan assets — — — Amortization of prior service credit (552 ) (593 ) (902 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 528 166 518 Net periodic benefit cost 747 342 435 Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: Net actuarial loss (gain) (1,248 ) 1,045 (1,496 ) Prior service credit 3 (1,283 ) (40 ) Reversal of amortization item: Net actuarial loss (528 ) (166 ) (518 ) Prior service credit 552 593 902 Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (1,221 ) 189 (1,152 ) Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ (474 ) $ 531 $ (717 ) The following table indicates the funded status of the plans as of December 31: Postretirement Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Benefit Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 16,012 $ 13,435 $ 11,127 $ 10,536 $ 16,235 $ 16,919 Service cost — — 101 87 152 129 Interest cost 616 644 402 435 619 640 Actuarial adjustments (1,013 ) 2,700 (1,072 ) 649 (1,248 ) 1,011 Plan amendments — — — — 3 (1,283 ) Benefits paid (709 ) (767 ) (509 ) (580 ) (1,188 ) (1,181 ) Benefit obligation at end of year 14,906 16,012 10,049 11,127 14,573 16,235 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 11,198 10,872 — — — 520 Actual return on plan assets (742 ) 364 — — — (34 ) Company contributions 732 729 509 580 1,188 695 Benefits paid (709 ) (767 ) (509 ) (580 ) (1,188 ) (1,181 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year 10,479 11,198 — — — — Funded status at end of year $ (4,427 ) $ (4,814 ) $ (10,049 ) $ (11,127 ) $ (14,573 ) $ (16,235 ) The net amounts recognized in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Pension and postretirement benefits” as of December 31 were as follows: Postretirement Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Benefit Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Other current liabilities $ — $ — $ 645 $ 635 $ 1,122 $ 1,094 Non-current liabilities 4,427 4,814 9,404 10,492 13,451 15,141 Net amount recognized $ 4,427 $ 4,814 $ 10,049 $ 11,127 $ 14,573 $ 16,235 Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2015 consisted of: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Total Net actuarial loss $ 9,202 $ 2,806 $ 3,795 $ 15,803 Prior service credit — — (2,173 ) (2,173 ) Subtotal 9,202 2,806 1,622 13,630 Less tax effect (3,490 ) (1,064 ) (615 ) (5,169 ) Total $ 5,712 $ 1,742 $ 1,007 $ 8,461 Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2014 consisted of: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Total Net actuarial loss $ 9,442 $ 4,020 $ 5,571 $ 19,033 Prior service credit — — (2,729 ) (2,729 ) Subtotal 9,442 4,020 2,842 16,304 Less tax effect (3,581 ) (1,525 ) (1,078 ) (6,184 ) Total $ 5,861 $ 2,495 $ 1,764 $ 10,120 The estimated net actuarial loss for the postretirement benefit plans that is expected to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost in 2016 is approximately $0.4 million. The estimated prior service credit for the postretirement benefit plans that is expected to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit credit in 2016 is approximately $0.5 million. The estimated net actuarial loss for the unfunded and funded benefit plans that is expected to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost in 2016 is approximately $0.1 million and $0.3 million, respectively. The fair value of the domestic plans’ assets by asset class was as follows: Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobserved Inputs (in thousands) Total (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Domestic pension plans: Fixed income securities $ 5,453 $ 5,453 $ — $ — U.S. equity securities 4,459 4,459 — — Cash 357 357 — — Other 210 — 210 — Total $ 10,479 $ 10,269 $ 210 $ — Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014 Quoted in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobserved Inputs (in thousands) Total (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Domestic pension plans: Fixed income securities $ 6,534 $ 6,534 $ — $ — U.S. equity securities 3,855 3,855 — — Cash 552 552 — — Other 257 — 257 — Total $ 11,198 $ 10,941 $ 257 $ — The Viad Corp Medical Plan maintained a trust account for plan assets invested in various securities. In June 2014, the trust account was closed after all plan assets were liquidated to reimburse Viad Corp for net postretirement medical claims paid. All medical claims are being paid by Viad. Viad employs a total return investment approach whereby a mix of equities and fixed income securities is used to maximize the long-term return of plan assets for a prudent level of risk. Risk tolerance is established through careful consideration of plan liabilities, plan funded status, and corporate financial condition. The investment portfolio contains a diversified blend of equity and fixed income securities. Furthermore, equity securities are diversified across U.S. and non-U.S. stocks, as well as growth and value. Investment risk is measured and monitored on an ongoing basis through quarterly investment portfolio reviews and annual liability measurements. Viad utilizes a building-block approach in determining the long-term expected rate of return on plan assets. Historical markets are studied and long-term historical relationships between equity securities and fixed income securities are preserved consistent with the widely accepted capital market principle that assets with higher volatility generate a greater return over the long run. Current market factors such as inflation and interest rates are evaluated before long-term capital market assumptions are determined. The long-term portfolio return also considers diversification and rebalancing. Peer data and historical returns are reviewed relative to Viad’s assumed rates for reasonableness and appropriateness. The following pension and postretirement benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans 2016 $ 834 $ 659 $ 1,146 2017 $ 875 $ 697 $ 1,157 2018 $ 895 $ 722 $ 1,153 2019 $ 922 $ 735 $ 1,123 2020 $ 988 $ 737 $ 1,112 2021-2025 $ 4,879 $ 3,447 $ 5,021 Foreign Pension Plans. Certain of Viad’s foreign operations also maintain trusteed defined benefit pension plans covering certain employees which are funded by the companies, and unfunded defined benefit pension plans providing supplemental benefits to select management employees. These plans use traditional defined benefit formulas based on years of service and final average compensation. Funding policies provide that payments to defined benefit pension trusts shall be at least equal to the minimum funding required by applicable regulations. The components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income included the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 503 $ 413 $ 534 Interest cost 505 631 702 Expected return on plan assets (583 ) (640 ) (698 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 160 145 248 Net periodic benefit cost 585 549 786 Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: Net actuarial loss (gain) 182 361 (1,214 ) Reversal of amortization of net actuarial loss (160 ) 145 (248 ) Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) 22 506 (1,462 ) Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ 607 $ 1,055 $ (676 ) The following table represents the funded status of the plans as of December 31: Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 12,016 $ 11,460 $ 2,756 $ 2,911 Service cost 503 413 — — Interest cost 415 507 89 124 Actuarial adjustments (176 ) 1,042 178 234 Benefits paid (1,115 ) (344 ) (179 ) (211 ) Translation adjustment (1,899 ) (1,062 ) (374 ) (302 ) Benefit obligation at end of year 9,744 12,016 2,470 2,756 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 11,747 11,560 — — Actual return on plan assets 377 983 — — Company contributions 566 604 179 211 Benefits paid (1,115 ) (344 ) (179 ) (211 ) Translation adjustment (1,870 ) (1,056 ) — — Fair value of plan assets at end of year 9,705 11,747 — — Funded status at end of year $ (39 ) $ (269 ) $ (2,470 ) $ (2,756 ) The net amounts recognized in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Pension and postretirement benefits” as of December 31 were as follows: Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Other current liabilities $ — $ — $ 162 $ 94 Non-current liabilities 39 318 2,308 2,662 Net amount recognized $ 39 $ 318 $ 2,470 $ 2,756 The net actuarial losses for the foreign funded plans as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $3.3 million ($2.5 million after-tax) and $4.0 million ($3.1 million after-tax), respectively. The net actuarial losses as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 for the foreign unfunded plans were $0.4 million ($0.3 million after-tax) and $0.4 million ($0.2 million after-tax), respectively. The fair value of the foreign pension plans’ assets by asset category was as follows: Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Canadian fixed income securities $ 4,372 $ 4,372 $ — $ — International equity securities 3,896 3,521 375 — U.S. equity securities 1,012 1,012 — — Other 425 425 — — Total $ 9,705 $ 9,330 $ 375 $ — Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Canadian fixed income securities $ 5,367 $ 5,367 $ — $ — International equity securities 4,693 4,273 420 — U.S. equity securities 1,236 1,236 — — Other 451 451 — — Total $ 11,747 $ 11,327 $ 420 $ — The following payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans 2016 $ 311 $ 166 2017 $ 383 $ 166 2018 $ 395 $ 166 2019 $ 449 $ 165 2020 $ 451 $ 165 2021-2025 $ 2,716 $ 816 Information for Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets. The accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets as of December 31 were as follows: Domestic Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Projected benefit obligation $ 14,906 $ 16,012 $ 10,049 $ 11,127 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 14,906 $ 16,012 $ 9,934 $ 11,014 Fair value of plan assets $ 10,479 $ 11,200 $ — $ — Foreign Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Projected benefit obligation $ 9,744 $ 12,016 $ 2,470 $ 2,756 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 9,186 $ 11,268 $ 2,470 $ 2,656 Fair value of plan assets $ 9,705 $ 11,747 $ — $ — Contributions. In aggregate for both the domestic and foreign plans, the Company anticipates contributing $0.9 million to the funded pension plans, $0.8 million to the unfunded pension plans and $1.1 million to the postretirement benefit plans in 2016. Weighted-Average Assumptions. Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31 were as follows: Domestic Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Foreign Plans 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Discount rate 4.37 % 4.01 % 4.25 % 3.90 % 4.30 % 4.00 % 3.76 % 3.85 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A 3.00 % 3.00 % N/A N/A 2.31 % 3.00 % Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost were as follows: Domestic Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Foreign Plans 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Discount rate 3.97 % 4.90 % 3.90 % 4.60 % 4.00 % 4.65 % 3.86 % 4.67 % Expected return on plan assets 3.33 % 4.15 % N/A N/A 0.00 % 0.00 % 4.51 % 5.69 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A 3.00 % 3.00 % N/A N/A 2.31 % 3.00 % The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the December 31, 2015 accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was 7.0 percent, declining one-quarter percent each year to the ultimate rate of 4.5 percent by the year 2025 and remaining at that level thereafter. The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the December 31, 2014 accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was 7.5 percent, declining one-quarter percent each year to the ultimate rate of 5.0 percent by the year 2025 and remaining at that level thereafter. A one-percentage-point increase in the assumed health care cost trend rate for each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2015 by approximately $1.5 million and the total of service and interest cost components by approximately $0.1 million. A one-percentage-point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate for each year would decrease the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2015 by approximately $1.3 million and the total of service and interest cost components by approximately $0.1 million. Multi-employer Plans. Viad contributes to defined benefit pension plans under the terms of collective-bargaining agreements that cover its union-represented employees. The financial risks of participating in these multi-employer pension plans generally include the fact that assets contributed to the plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers. Furthermore, if a participating employer ceases to contribute to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers. In addition, if Viad were to discontinue its participation in some of its multi-employer pension plans, the Company may be required to pay those plans a withdrawal liability amount based on the underfunded status of the plan. Viad also contributes to defined contribution plans pursuant to its collective-bargaining agreements, which are generally not subject to the funding risks inherent in defined benefit pension plans. The overall level of Viad’s contributions to its multi-employer plans may significantly vary from year to year based on the demand for union-represented labor to support the Company’s operations. Viad does not have any minimum contribution requirements for future periods pursuant to its collective-bargaining agreements for individually significant multi-employer plans. Viad’s participation in multi-employer pension plans for 2015 is outlined in the following table. Unless otherwise noted, the most recent Pension Protection Act zone status available in 2015 and 2014 relates to the plan’s year end as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and is based on information received from the plan. Among other factors, plans in the red zone are generally less than 65 percent funded, plans in the yellow zone are less than 80 percent funded, and plans in the green zone are at least 80 percent funded. The “FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented” column indicates plans for which a financial improvement plan or a rehabilitation plan is either pending or has been implemented. Plan Pension Protection Act Zone Status FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented Viad Contributions Surcharge Paid Expiration Date of Collective- Bargaining Agreement(s) (in thousands) EIN No. 2015 2014 2015 2014 2013 Pension Fund: Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan 91-6145047 1 Green Green No $ 5,632 $ 6,369 $ 5,524 No 5/31/2018 Southern California Local 831—Employer Pension Fund (1) 95-6376874 1 Green Green No 2,485 2,481 2,244 No 8/31/17 Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Pension Fund 36-6130207 1 Yellow Yellow Yes 1,887 1,946 1,614 No 5/31/18 Electrical Contractors Assoc. Chicago Local Union 134, IBEW Joint Pension Trust of Chicago Plan #2 51-6030753 2 Green Green No 1,190 1,081 957 No 6/3/17 IBEW Local Union No 357 Pension Plan A (2) 88-6023284 1 Green Green No 1,150 1,457 1,631 No 6/16/18 Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Plan 36-6044243 1 Red Red Yes 948 1,018 836 No 7/31/18 Southern California IBEW-NECA Pension Fund 95-6392774 1 Yellow Yellow Yes 835 768 184 No continuous National Electrical Benefit Fund 53-0181657 1 Green Green No 771 167 193 No 6/16/18 Southwest Carpenters Pension Trust 95-6042875 1 Green Green No 750 885 812 No 6/30/18 Sign Pictorial & Display Industry Pension Plan (1) 94-6278490 1 Green Green No 541 439 367 No 3/31/18 Machinery Movers Riggers & Mach Erect Local 136 Supplemental Retirement Plan (1) 36-1416355 11 Red Red Yes 502 993 430 Yes 6/30/19 All other funds (3) 3,869 3,491 2,032 Total contributions to defined benefit plans 20,560 21,095 16,824 Total contributions to other plans 1,428 2,057 3,489 Total contributions to multi-employer plans $ 21,988 $ 23,152 $ 20,313 (1) The Company contributed more than 5 percent of total plan contributions for the 2014 and 2013 plan years based on the plans’ Form 5500s. (2) (3 ) Represents participation in 45 pension funds during 2015. Other Employee Benefits. The Company matches U.S. employee contributions to the 401(k) plan with shares of Viad common stock up to 100 percent of the first 3 percent of a participant’s salary plus 50 percent of the next 2 percent. The expense associated with the Company match was $3.7 million, $3.3 million, and $1.3 million for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Historically, Viad has funded its matching contributions to employees’ 401(k) accounts through the Company’s leveraged ESOP feature of the Company’s 401(k) defined contribution plan. ESOP shares are treated as outstanding for income per share calculations. During 2014, the Company depleted these shares and matching contributions are now funded from shares of Viad common stock held in treasury. Refer to Note 14 – Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401(k) Plan for further information.

Restructuring Charges

Restructuring Charges	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring And Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring Charges	Note 19. Restructuring Charges Marketing & Events Group Consolidation Beginning in 2009, Viad commenced certain restructuring actions designed to reduce the Company’s cost structure primarily within the Marketing & Events U.S. Segment, and to a lesser extent in the Marketing & Events International Segment. The Company implemented a strategic reorganization plan in order to consolidate the separate business units within the Marketing & Events U.S. Segment. The Company also consolidated facilities and streamlined its operations in the United Kingdom and Germany. As a result, the Company recorded restructuring charges in 2015, 2014 and 2013, primarily consisting of severance and related benefits as a result of workforce reductions and charges related to the consolidation and downsizing of facilities representing the remaining operating lease obligations (net of estimated sublease income) and related costs. Other Restructurings The Company recorded restructuring charges in connection with the consolidation of certain support functions at its corporate headquarters and certain reorganization activities within the Travel & Recreation Group. These charges primarily consist of severance and related benefits due to headcount reductions and charges related to the downsizing of facilities. The table below represents a reconciliation of beginning and ending liability balances by major restructuring activity: Marketing & Events Group Consolidation Other Restructurings (in thousands) Severance & Employee Benefits Facilities Severance & Employee Benefits Facilities Total Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 720 $ 5,571 $ — $ 933 $ 7,224 Restructuring charges (recoveries) 2,931 (315 ) 1,869 (692 ) 3,793 Cash payments (2,411 ) (1,691 ) (498 ) (241 ) (4,841 ) Adjustment to liability — — (478 ) — (478 ) Balance at December 31, 2013 1,240 3,565 893 — 5,698 Restructuring charges (recoveries) 2,358 (828 ) 107 — 1,637 Cash payments (3,055 ) (1,376 ) (845 ) — (5,276 ) Adjustment to liability — (200 ) 85 — (115 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 543 1,161 240 — 1,944 Restructuring charges 1,767 587 602 — 2,956 Cash payments (1,514 ) (457 ) (601 ) — (2,572 ) Adjustment to liability (45 ) — (7 ) — (52 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 751 $ 1,291 $ 234 $ — $ 2,276 As of December 31, 2015, the liabilities related to severance and employee benefits are expected to be paid by the end of 2018. Refer to Note 22 - Segment Information for information regarding restructuring charges by segment.

Leases and Other

Leases and Other	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Leases and Other	Note 20. Leases and Other Viad has entered into operating leases for the use of certain of its offices, equipment and other facilities. These leases expire over periods up to 40 years. Leases which expire are generally renewed or replaced by similar leases. Some leases contain scheduled rental increases accounted for on a straight-line basis. As of December 31, 2015, Viad’s future minimum rental payments and related sublease rentals receivable with respect to non-cancelable operating leases with terms in excess of one year were as follows: (in thousands) Rental Payments Receivable Under Subleases 2016 $ 20,962 $ 1,526 2017 18,567 1,544 2018 16,437 1,490 2019 13,027 1,005 2020 11,413 509 Thereafter 10,122 253 Total $ 90,528 $ 6,327 Net rent expense under operating leases consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Minimum rentals $ 41,564 $ 37,707 $ 34,201 Sublease rentals (3,457 ) (6,884 ) (6,815 ) Total rentals, net $ 38,107 $ 30,823 $ 27,386 The aggregate annual maturities and the related amounts representing interest on capital lease obligations are included in Note 11 – Debt and Capital Lease Obligations. In addition, as of December 31, 2015, the Company had aggregate purchase obligations of $28.1 million related to various licensing agreements, consulting and other contracted services.

Litigation, Claims, Contingenci

Litigation, Claims, Contingencies and Other	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Litigation, Claims, Contingencies and Other	Note 21. Litigation, Claims, Contingencies, and Other Viad and certain of its subsidiaries are plaintiffs or defendants to various actions, proceedings and pending claims, some of which involve, or may involve, compensatory, punitive or other damages. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties and it is possible that some of the legal actions, proceedings or claims could be decided against Viad. Although the amount of liability as of December 31, 2015 with respect to these matters is not ascertainable, Viad believes that any resulting liability, after taking into consideration amounts already provided for and insurance coverage, will not have a material effect on Viad’s business, financial position or results of operations. Viad is subject to various U.S. federal, state and foreign laws and regulations governing the prevention of pollution and the protection of the environment in the jurisdictions in which Viad has or had operations. If the Company has failed to comply with these environmental laws and regulations, civil and criminal penalties could be imposed and Viad could become subject to regulatory enforcement actions in the form of injunctions and cease and desist orders. As is the case with many companies, Viad also faces exposure to actual or potential claims and lawsuits involving environmental matters relating to its past operations. Although it is a party to certain environmental disputes, Viad believes that any resulting liabilities, after taking into consideration amounts already provided for and insurance coverage, will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Viad had recorded environmental remediation liabilities of $4.5 million and $4.7 million related to previously sold operations, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, Viad had certain obligations under guarantees to third parties on behalf of its subsidiaries. These guarantees are not subject to liability recognition in the consolidated financial statements and relate to leased facilities entered into by Viad’s subsidiary operations. The Company would generally be required to make payments to the respective third parties under these guarantees in the event that the related subsidiary could not meet its own payment obligations. The maximum potential amount of future payments that Viad would be required to make under all guarantees existing as of December 31, 2015 would be $10.4 million. These guarantees relate to leased facilities expiring through March 2021. There are no recourse provisions that would enable Viad to recover from third parties any payments made under the guarantees. Furthermore, there are no collateral or similar arrangements whereby Viad could recover payments. A significant portion of Viad’s employees are unionized and the Company is a party to approximately 100 collective-bargaining agreements, with approximately one-third requiring renegotiation each year. As of December 31, 2015, approximately 29 percent of Viad’s regular full-time employees are covered by collective-bargaining agreements. If the Company were unable to reach an agreement with a union during the collective-bargaining process, the union may call for a strike or work stoppage, which may, under certain circumstances, adversely impact the Company’s businesses and results of operations. Viad believes that relations with its employees are satisfactory and that collective-bargaining agreements expiring in 2016 will be renegotiated in the ordinary course of business without having a material adverse effect on Viad’s operations. The Company entered into new showsite and warehouse agreements with the Chicago Teamsters Local 727, effective January 1, 2014, and those agreements contain provisions that allow the parties to re-open negotiation of the agreements on pension-related issues. The Company is in informal discussions regarding those issues with all relevant parties and is working diligently to resolve those issues in a manner that will be reasonable and equitable to employees, customers and shareholders. Although the Company’s labor relations are currently stable, disruptions pending the outcome of the Chicago Teamsters Local 727 negotiations could occur, as they could with any collective-bargaining agreement negotiation, with the possibility of an adverse impact on the operating results of the Marketing & Events Group. Viad’s businesses contribute to various multi-employer pension plans based on obligations arising under collective bargaining agreements covering its union-represented employees. Viad’s contributions to these plans in 2015, 2014 and 2013 totaled $22.0 million, $23.2 million and $20.3 million, respectively. Based upon the information available to Viad from plan administrators, management believes that several of these multi-employer plans are underfunded. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 requires pension plans underfunded at certain levels to reduce, over defined time periods, the underfunded status. In addition, under current laws, the termination of a plan, or a voluntary withdrawal from a plan by Viad, or a shrinking contribution base to a plan as a result of the insolvency or withdrawal of other contributing employers to such plan, would require Viad to make payments to such plan for its proportionate share of the plan’s unfunded vested liabilities. As of December 31, 2015, the amount of additional funding, if any, that Viad would be required to make related to multi-employer pension plans is not ascertainable. Viad is self-insured up to certain limits for workers’ compensation, employee health benefits, automobile, product and general liability and property loss claims. The aggregate amount of insurance liabilities (up to the Company’s retention limit) related to Viad’s continuing operations was approximately $20.5 million as of December 31, 2015 which includes $13.4 million related to workers’ compensation liabilities and $7.1 million related to general/auto liability claims. Viad has also retained and provided for certain insurance liabilities in conjunction with previously sold businesses of $4.2 million as of December 31, 2015, related to workers’ compensation liabilities. Provisions for losses for claims incurred, including estimated claims incurred but not yet reported, are made based on Viad’s historical experience, claims frequency, and other factors. A change in the assumptions used could result in an adjustment to recorded liabilities. Viad has purchased insurance for amounts in excess of the self-insured levels, which generally range from $0.2 million to $0.5 million on a per claim basis. Viad does not maintain a self-insured retention pool fund as claims are paid from current cash resources at the time of settlement. Viad’s net cash payments in connection with these insurance liabilities were $5.6 million, $4.8 million and $6.6 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. In addition, as of December 31, 2015, Viad had recorded insurance liabilities of $6.0 million related to continuing operations, which represents the amount for which Viad remains the primary obligor after self-insured insurance limits, without taking into consideration the above-referenced insurance coverage. Of this total, $2.5 million related to workers’ compensation liabilities and $3.5 million related to general/auto liability claims. The Company has recorded those amounts in other deferred items and liabilities in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding receivable in other investments and assets.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Note 22. Segment Information Viad measures profit and performance of its operations on the basis of segment operating income which excludes restructuring charges and recoveries and impairment charges. Intersegment sales are eliminated in consolidation and intersegment transfers are not significant. Corporate activities include expenses not allocated to operations. Depreciation and amortization and share-based compensation expense are the only significant non-cash items for the reportable segments. Viad’s reportable segments with reconciliations to consolidated totals are as follows: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenue: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. Segment $ 720,882 $ 710,835 $ 628,856 International Segment 272,634 249,649 229,312 Intersegment eliminations (16,638 ) (16,016 ) (13,264 ) Total Marketing & Events Group 976,878 944,468 844,904 Travel & Recreation Group 112,170 120,519 108,443 Total revenue $ 1,089,048 $ 1,064,987 $ 953,347 Segment operating income: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. Segment $ 14,563 $ 21,400 $ 11,024 International Segment 12,211 10,339 9,068 Total Marketing & Events Group 26,774 31,739 20,092 Travel & Recreation Group 27,810 28,127 21,819 Segment operating income 54,584 59,866 41,911 Corporate activities (9,720 ) (14,348 ) (6,755 ) Operating income 44,864 45,518 35,156 Interest income 658 305 550 Interest expense (4,535 ) (2,015 ) (1,234 ) Restructuring (charges) recoveries: Marketing & Events U.S. Segment (541 ) 278 409 Marketing & Events International Segment (1,813 ) (1,808 ) (2,362 ) Travel & Recreation Group (200 ) 41 (809 ) Corporate (402 ) (148 ) (1,031 ) Impairment charges: Marketing & Events U.S. Segment — — (658 ) Marketing & Events International Segment — (884 ) (294 ) Travel & Recreation Group (96 ) — (2,097 ) Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 37,935 $ 41,287 $ 27,630 December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Assets: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. $ 294,618 $ 304,727 $ 194,422 International 115,494 116,842 81,058 Travel & Recreation Group 195,527 199,986 209,611 Corporate and other 86,656 93,388 76,841 $ 692,295 $ 714,943 $ 561,932 Depreciation and amortization: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. $ 18,658 $ 16,066 $ 14,906 International 8,435 6,311 5,566 Travel & Recreation Group 7,974 8,232 7,319 Corporate and other 164 183 176 $ 35,231 $ 30,792 $ 27,967 Capital expenditures: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. $ 8,066 $ 14,515 $ 8,278 International 8,366 4,134 4,332 Travel & Recreation Group 13,107 10,740 23,108 Corporate and other 300 — 401 $ 29,839 $ 29,389 $ 36,119 Geographic Areas . Viad’s foreign operations are located principally in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and the Netherlands. Marketing & Events Group revenue is designated as domestic or foreign based on the originating location of the product or service. Long-lived assets are attributed to domestic or foreign based principally on the physical location of the assets. Long-lived assets consist of “Property and equipment, net” and “Other investments and assets.” The table below presents the financial information by major geographic area: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenue: United States $ 726,436 $ 718,538 $ 637,482 EMEA 220,046 192,674 166,931 Canada 142,566 153,775 148,934 Total revenue $ 1,089,048 $ 1,064,987 $ 953,347 Long-lived assets: United States $ 141,051 $ 130,401 $ 132,315 EMEA 15,714 14,215 10,055 Canada 71,677 78,193 82,986 Total long-lived assets $ 228,442 $ 222,809 $ 225,356

Common Stock Repurchases

Common Stock Repurchases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Common Stock Repurchases	Note 23. Common Stock Repurchases In December 2012, Viad announced the authorization of its Board of Directors to repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time at prevailing market prices. During 2015 and 2014, Viad repurchased 141,462 and 448,436 shares on the open market for $3.8 million and $10.6 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, 440,540 shares remain available for repurchase. In addition, during 2015, 2014, and 2013, the Company repurchased 35,649 shares at a cost of $1.0 million, 72,996 shares at a cost of $1.8 million, and 50,156 shares at a cost of $1.3 million, respectively, related to tax withholding requirements on vested share-based awards.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Note 24. Discontinued Operations In 2015, Viad recorded losses from discontinued operations of $0.4 million due to reserve adjustments and legal fees related to previously sold operations. In 2014, Viad recorded income from discontinued operations of $13.3 million primarily related to the gain on the possessory interest and personal property at Glacier Park. The Company’s 2013 results related to the operations of Glacier Park’s concession contract business have been reclassified as discontinued operations in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the year ended 2013, Viad recorded income from discontinued operations of $1.2 million related to Glacier Park income. On December 31, 2013, Glacier Park’s concession contract with the Park Service to operate lodging, tour and transportation and other hospitality services within Glacier National Park expired. Upon completion of the contract, the Company received cash payments in January 2014 totaling $25.0 million resulting in a pre-tax gain of $21.5 million for the Company’s possessory interest. The gain after-tax on the possessory interest was $13.5 million with $2.7 million attributable to the noncontrolling interest. These amounts are included in income (loss) from discontinued operations and net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. In September 2014, the Company received $3.0 million in cash for the sale of the remaining personal property assets held for sale at Glacier Park. This resulted in a gain of approximately $0.7 million, net of tax. The following summarizes Glacier Park’s expired concession contract operating results, which are presented in income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax, in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2014 2013 Total revenue $ — $ 19,445 Costs and expenses (93 ) (15,462 ) Impairment charges — (2,364 ) Restructuring charges — (98 ) Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes (93 ) 1,521 Income tax benefit (expense) 45 (280 ) Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (48 ) 1,241 Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax 13,343 — Income from discontinued operations 13,295 1,241 Income from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest (2,825 ) (248 ) Income from discontinued operations attributable to Viad $ 10,470 $ 993 For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $4.5 million representing all goodwill at the Glacier Park reporting unit, of which $2.1 million related to continuing operations and $2.4 million related to discontinued operations. Additionally, for the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded other asset impairment charges of $1.0 million at the Marketing & Events Group related to the write-off of certain assets within the Marketing & Events Group. For the year ended December 31, 2014, Viad also recorded income from discontinued operations, net of tax, of $1.1 million primarily due to additional reserves related to certain liabilities associated with previously sold operations and an insurance recovery. For the year ended December 31, 2013, Viad recorded income from discontinued operations, net of tax, of $1.1 million primarily related to the sale of land associated with previously sold operations. The following is a reconciliation of net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Income (loss) from continuing operations $ 442 $ 388 $ (117 ) Income from discontinued operations — 2,825 248 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest $ 442 $ 3,213 $ 131

Condensed Consolidated Quarterl

Condensed Consolidated Quarterly Results (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidated Quarterly Results (Unaudited)	Note 25. Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) The following table sets forth selected unaudited consolidated quarterly financial information: 2015 2014 (in thousands, except per share data) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Revenue: $ 264,396 $ 317,035 $ 255,946 $ 251,671 $ 285,641 $ 256,391 $ 299,802 $ 223,155 Operating income (loss): Ongoing operations (1) $ (1,125 ) $ 36,286 $ 14,571 $ 4,852 $ 13,361 $ 14,136 $ 33,013 $ (644 ) Corporate activities (2,810 ) (1,983 ) (1,354 ) (3,573 ) (2,039 ) (1,991 ) (3,468 ) (6,850 ) Restructuring (charges) recoveries (216 ) (1,069 ) (257 ) (1,414 ) (211 ) (1,369 ) (234 ) 177 Impairment charges — — — (96 ) — (884 ) — — Operating income (loss) $ (4,151 ) $ 33,234 $ 12,960 $ (231 ) $ 11,111 $ 9,892 $ 29,311 $ (7,317 ) Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Viad (2) $ (1,908 ) $ 22,311 $ 7,393 $ (796 ) $ 9,312 $ 7,978 $ 30,755 $ (7,255 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Viad (2) $ (2,056 ) $ 22,389 $ 7,230 $ (957 ) $ 21,882 $ 6,742 $ 29,620 $ (5,889 ) Basic and Diluted income (loss) per common share: (2) (3) Continuing operations attributable to Viad $ (0.10 ) $ 1.11 $ 0.37 $ (0.04 ) $ 0.46 $ 0.39 $ 1.53 $ (0.37 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Viad common stockholders $ (0.10 ) $ 1.12 $ 0.36 $ (0.05 ) $ 1.08 $ 0.33 $ 1.48 $ (0.30 ) (1) Represents revenue less costs of services and products sold. (2) Includes $10.1 million benefit associated with the 2014 third quarter release of the valuation allowance relating to foreign income tax credits. (3) The sum of quarterly income per share amounts may not equal annual income per share due to rounding.

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Note 26. Subsequent Events Acquisition of the Maligne Lake Tours Business On January 4, 2016, Viad acquired the business of Maligne Tours Ltd. (“Maligne Lake Tours”), which provides interpretive boat tours and related services at Maligne Lake, the largest lake in Jasper National Park. Maligne Lake Tours has seven tour boats operating seasonally from May through October, a marina and day lodge that offers food and beverage and retail services, a historic chalet complex that is available for catered special events, and a historic boat house that offers canoes, kayaks, and rowboats for rental. The purchase price was approximately $20.9 million Canadian dollars (approximately $15.0 million U.S. dollars) in cash, subject to certain adjustments. Amendment to Credit Agreement Effective February 24, 2016, Viad executed the Credit Agreement Amendment to the Company’s Credit Agreement, to modify the terms of the financial covenants and the negative covenants under the Credit Agreement related to acquisitions, restricted payments, and indebtedness. The Credit Agreement, as amended by the Credit Agreement Amendment, includes the following revisions: · Acquisitions in the same or related lines of business are permitted if the leverage ratio, on a pro forma basis, is less than or equal to 3.00 to 1.00; · Unlimited stock dividends, distributions, and repurchases if the leverage ratio is less than or equal to 2.50 to 1.00, otherwise limited to $20 million in any calendar year; · Maintain a leverage ratio of not greater than 3.50 to 1.00; · Maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 1.75 to 1.00; and · Unlimited unsecured indebtedness if the leverage ratio is less than or equal to 3.00 to 1.00. Refer to Note 11 – Debt and Capital Lease Obligations for further information.

Schedule II - Valuation And Qua

Schedule II - Valuation And Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	VIAD CORP SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Additions Deductions Balance at Beginning Charged to Charged to Other Credited to Other Balance at (in thousands) of Year Expense Accounts Write Offs Accounts End of Year Allowances for doubtful accounts: December 31, 2013 $ 1,150 $ 313 $ — $ (586 ) $ — $ 877 December 31, 2014 877 821 — (440 ) — 1,258 December 31, 2015 1,258 955 542 (1,162 ) — 1,593 Deferred tax valuation allowance: December 31, 2013 $ 14,576 $ 1,917 $ — $ (4,100 ) $ — $ 12,393 December 31, 2014 12,393 95 2,589 (11,782 ) — 3,295 December 31, 2015 3,295 — 402 (860 ) — 2,837

Summary of Significant Accoun37

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation	Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Viad Corp (“Viad” or the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include the accounts of Viad and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Nature of Business	Nature of Business Viad’s reportable segments consist of Marketing & Events U.S. Segment, Marketing & Events International Segment (collectively, the “Marketing & Events Group”) and the Travel & Recreation Group. Marketing & Events Group The Marketing & Events Group produces exhibitions, events, exhibits, and services some of the most visible and influential events. The Marketing & Events Group, GES’ clients include event organizers and corporate brand marketers. Corporate brand marketers include exhibitors and domestic and international corporations that want to promote their brands, services and innovations, feature new products, and build business relationships . GES serves its clients when they exhibit at shows or when GES is hired to manage their global exhibit program or corporate event. Travel & Recreation Group The Travel & Recreation Group provides experiential travel services in iconic natural and cultural destinations in North America through its collection of unique hotels, lodges, recreational attractions, and transportation services
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reported period. Estimates and assumptions are used in accounting for, among other things, the fair value of Viad’s reporting units used to perform annual impairment testing of recorded goodwill; allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable; provisions for income taxes, including uncertain tax positions; valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets; liabilities for losses related to self-insured liability claims; liabilities for losses related to environmental remediation obligations; sublease income associated with restructuring liabilities; assumptions used to measure pension and postretirement benefit costs and obligations; assumptions used to determine share-based compensation costs under the fair value method; and allocation of purchase price of acquired businesses. Actual results could differ from these and other estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Viad considers all highly-liquid investments with remaining maturities when purchased of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Viad’s cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and bank demand deposits and money market mutual funds. The Company’s investments in money market mutual funds are classified as available-for-sale and carried at fair value.
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts	Allowances for Doubtful Accounts Viad maintains allowances for doubtful accounts to reflect the best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balance. The allowances for doubtful accounts, including a sales allowance for discounts at the time of sale, is based upon an evaluation of the aging of receivables, historical trends, and the current economic environment.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories, which consist primarily of exhibit design and construction materials and supplies, as well as deferred show costs, including labor, show purchases, and commissions used in providing convention show services, are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out and specific identification methods) or market.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets: buildings, 15 to 40 years; equipment, 3 to 12 years; and leasehold improvements, over the shorter of the lease term or useful life. Property and equipment are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the long-lived asset may not be recoverable through undiscounted cash flows.
Capitalized Software	Capitalized Software Viad capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred in developing or obtaining internal use software. Capitalized costs principally relate to costs incurred to purchase software from third parties, external direct costs of materials and services, and certain payroll-related costs for employees directly associated with software projects once application development begins. Costs associated with preliminary project activities, training, and other post-implementation activities are expensed as incurred. Capitalized software costs are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the software, ranging from three to ten years. These costs are included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Property and equipment, net.”
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis as of October 31, and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. Viad uses a discounted expected future cash flow methodology (income approach) in order to estimate the fair value of its reporting units for purposes of goodwill impairment testing. The estimates and assumptions regarding expected future cash flows, discount rates, and terminal values require considerable judgment and are based on market conditions, financial forecasts, industry trends, and historical experience. These estimates, however, have inherent uncertainties and different assumptions could lead to materially different results.
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance	Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Viad has Company-owned life insurance contracts which are intended to fund the cost of certain employee compensation and benefit programs. These contracts are carried at cash surrender value, net of outstanding policy loans. The cash surrender value represents the amount of cash the Company could receive if the policies were discontinued before maturity. The changes in the cash surrender value of the policies, net of insurance premiums, are included as a component of “Costs of Services” in the consolidated statements of operations.
Self-Insurance Liabilities	Self-Insurance Liabilities Viad is self-insured up to certain limits for workers’ compensation, automobile, product and general liability, property loss, and medical claims. Viad has also retained certain liabilities related to workers’ compensation and general liability insurance claims in conjunction with previously sold operations. Provisions for losses for claims incurred, including estimated claims incurred but not yet reported, are made based on Viad’s prior historical experience, claims frequency, insurance coverage, and other factors. Viad has purchased insurance for amounts in excess of the self-insured levels.
Environmental Remediation Liabilities	Environmental Remediation Liabilities Viad has retained certain liabilities representing the estimated cost of environmental remediation obligations primarily associated with previously sold operations. The amounts accrued primarily consist of the estimated direct incremental costs, on an undiscounted basis, for contractor and other services related to remedial actions and post-remediation site monitoring. Environmental remediation liabilities are recorded when the specific obligation is considered probable and the costs are reasonably estimable. Subsequent recoveries from third parties, if any, are recorded through discontinued operations when realized. The Company maintains environmental insurance that provides coverage for new and undiscovered pre-existing conditions at both its continuing and discontinued operations.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. Refer to Note 11 – Debt and Capital Lease Obligations for the estimated fair value of debt obligations.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation Viad conducts its foreign operations primarily in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and to a lesser extent, in certain other countries. The functional currency of Viad’s foreign subsidiaries is their local currency. Accordingly, for purposes of consolidation, Viad translates the assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at the foreign exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The unrealized gains or losses resulting from the translation of these foreign denominated assets and liabilities are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets. For purposes of consolidation, revenue, expenses, gains, and losses related to Viad’s foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average foreign exchange rates for the period.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Viad recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. GES derives revenue primarily by providing show services to exhibitors participating in exhibitions and events and from the design, construction, and refurbishment of exhibit booths. Service revenue is recognized at the time services are completed. Service revenue from event accommodations services is recorded when services are completed and is net of commissions. Exhibits and environments revenue is accounted for using the completed-contract method. The Travel & Recreation Group generates revenue through its attractions, hotels, transportation, and sightseeing services. Revenue is recognized at the time services are performed.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation Viad recognizes and measures compensation costs related to all share-based payment awards using the fair value method of accounting. These awards generally include restricted stock, stock options, and liability-based awards (including performance units and restricted stock units). These awards contain forfeiture and non-compete provisions. The fair value of restricted stock awards is based on Viad’s stock price on the date of grant. Viad issues restricted stock awards from shares held in treasury. Future vesting of restricted stock is generally subject to continued employment with Viad or its subsidiaries. Holders of restricted stock have the right to receive dividends and vote the shares, but may not sell, assign, transfer, pledge, or otherwise encumber the stock, except to the extent restrictions have lapsed. Restricted stock awards vest between three and five years from the date of grant. Share-based compensation expense related to restricted stock is recognized using the straight-line method over the requisite service period of approximately three years except for certain awards with a five-year vesting period whereby expense is recognized based on an accelerated multiple-award approach over a five-year period. For these awards, 40 percent of the shares vest on the third anniversary of the grant and the remaining shares vest in 30 percent increments over the subsequent two anniversary dates. Liability-based awards (including performance units and restricted stock units) are recorded at estimated fair value, based on the number of units expected to vest and the level of achievement of predefined performance goals, where applicable, and are remeasured on each balance sheet date based on Viad’s stock price, or the Monte Carlo simulation model, until the time of settlement. A Monte Carlo simulation requires the use of a number of assumptions, including historical volatility and correlation of the price of Viad’s stock and the price of the common shares of a comparator group, a risk-free rate of return, and an expected term. To the extent earned, liability-based awards are settled in cash based on Viad’s stock price. Compensation expense related to liability-based awards is recognized ratably over the requisite service period of approximately three years. The fair value of each stock option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Share-based compensation expense related to stock option awards is recognized using the straight-line method over the requisite service period of approximately five years. The exercise price of stock options is based on the market value of Viad’s common stock at the date of grant.
Common Stock in Treasury	Common Stock in Treasury Common stock purchased for treasury is recorded at historical cost. Subsequent share reissuances are primarily related to share-based compensation programs and recorded at weighted-average cost.
Income Per Common Share	Income Per Common Share Viad applies the two-class method in calculating income per common share as unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends are considered participating securities. Accordingly, such securities are included in the earnings allocation in calculating income per share. Historically, Viad has funded its matching contributions to employees’ 401(k) accounts through the Company’s leveraged Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) feature of the Company’s 401(k) defined contribution plan. ESOP shares are treated as outstanding for income per share calculations. During 2014, the Company depleted these shares and matching contributions are now funded from shares of Viad common stock held in treasury.
Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements The following table provides a brief description of recent accounting pronouncements: Standard Description Date of adoption Effect on the financial statements Standards Not Yet Adopted ASU 2014-09 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) The standard establishes a new recognition model that requires revenue to be recognized in a manner to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received in exchange for those goods or services. The Company may adopt either retrospectively to each prior period presented with the option to elect certain practical expedients or with the cumulative effect recognized at the date of initial application and providing certain disclosures. January 1, 2018 The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of this new guidance on its financial position or results of operations, including the method of adoption to be used. ASU 2014-12 , Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) - Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide that a Performance Target Could be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period The amendment requires that a performance target that affects vesting, and that could be achieved after the requisite service period, be treated as a performance condition. As such, the performance target should not be reflected in estimating the grant date fair value of the award. January 1, 2016 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements. ASU 2015-03 , Interest - Imputation of Interest Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs ASU 2015-15 , Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements The amendments requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. For line-of-credit arrangements, an entity may defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement. January 1, 2016 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements or financial covenants. ASU 2015-11 , Inventory (Topic 330) - Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory The amendments apply to inventory measures using first-in, first-out or average cost and will require entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the normal course of business, minus the cost of completion, disposal and transportation. Replacement cost and net realizable value less a normal profit margin will no longer be considered. January 1, 2017 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements. ASU 2015-16 , Business Combinations (Topic 805) - Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments The amendment requires an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. January 1, 2016 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant effect on Viad's consolidated financial statements. ASU 2016-02 , Leases (Topic 842) The amendment requires lessees to recognize on their balance sheet a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for leases with lease terms greater than one year. The amendment requires additional disclosures about leasing arrangements, and requires a modified retrospective approach to adoption. Early adoption is permitted. January 1, 2019 The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of this new guidance on its financial position or results of operations. Standards Recently Adopted ASU 2015-17 , Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes The amendment simplifies the presentation of deferred taxes by requiring all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. December 31, 2015 Early adopted on a retrospective basis. As a result, current deferred tax assets of $22.9 million were reclassified to non-current on the December 31, 2014 consolidated balance sheet.

Share-Based Compensation (Table

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Summary of share-based compensation expense	The following table summarizes share-based compensation expense: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Restricted stock $ 2,111 $ 2,495 $ 3,073 Performance unit incentive plan (“PUP”) 1,692 359 1,864 Restricted stock units 45 76 177 Stock options — — 107 Share-based compensation before income tax benefit 3,848 2,930 5,221 Income tax benefit (1,454 ) (1,102 ) (1,936 ) Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit $ 2,394 $ 1,828 $ 3,285
Summary of activity of the outstanding share-based compensation awards	The following table summarizes the activity of the outstanding share-based compensation awards: Restricted Stock PUP Awards Restricted Stock Units Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance, December 31, 2014 328,602 $ 23.30 267,120 $ 23.51 25,370 $ 23.17 Granted 92,850 $ 27.52 92,100 $ 27.30 4,800 $ 27.35 Vested (109,050 ) $ 20.51 (103,555 ) $ 20.60 (11,623 ) $ 20.91 Forfeited (33,185 ) $ 24.51 (24,500 ) $ 25.23 (2,100 ) $ 25.46 Balance, December 31, 2015 279,217 $ 25.65 231,165 $ 26.15 16,447 $ 25.69
Summary of stock option activity	The following table summarizes stock option activity: Shares Weighted- Average Exercise Price Options Exercisable Options outstanding at December 31, 2014 247,590 $ 17.82 247,590 Exercised (54,076 ) $ 16.62 Forfeited or expired (129,741 ) $ 18.91 Options outstanding at December 31, 2015 63,773 $ 16.62 63,773
Summary of additional information on stock options	Additional information pertaining to stock options is provided in the table below: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Total intrinsic value of stock options outstanding $ 740 $ 2,251 $ 2,723 Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised $ 1,474 $ 1,616 $ 1,611 Fair value of stock options vested $ — $ — $ 532 Cash received from the exercise of stock options $ 898 $ 1,155 $ 777 Tax benefits realized for tax deductions related to stock option exercises $ 104 $ 461 $ 404

Acquisition of Businesses (Tabl

Acquisition of Businesses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of recognized identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed	The following table summarizes the purchase price and opening balance sheet for the West Glacier Properties acquisition as of the acquisition date: (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 16,544 Working capital adjustment payable 320 Total purchase price 16,864 Fair value of net assets acquired: Prepaid expenses $ 24 Inventory 1,374 Property and equipment 14,510 Intangible assets 189 Total assets acquired 16,097 Accrued liabilities 35 Customer deposits 402 Other liabilities 64 Total liabilities acquired 501 Total fair value of net assets acquired 15,596 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 1,268 The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of approximately $49,000 to property and equipment, $16,000 from intangible assets, $0.2 million from accrued lease obligations, $0.2 million to deferred taxes and $22,000 to goodwill. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, the balances in the table below as of December 31, 2015 remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of September 30, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 24,416 Cash acquired (190 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 24,226 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 264 Inventory 433 Prepaid expenses 410 Property and equipment 5,951 Intangible assets 8,692 Total assets acquired 15,750 Accounts payable 1,232 Accrued liabilities 2,246 Customer deposits 199 Deferred tax liability 468 Revolving credit facility 488 Accrued dilapidations 417 Total liabilities acquired 5,050 Total fair value of net assets acquired 10,700 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 13,526 The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of approximately $0.2 million from other non-current assets, $0.2 million from intangible assets, $1.4 million to deferred taxes, $0.2 million from other liabilities, and $1.6 million to goodwill. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, as of December 31, 2015, the balances in the table below remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of December 31, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 42,950 Cash acquired (4,064 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 38,886 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 4,008 Prepaid expenses 640 Property and equipment 2,450 Other non-current assets 129 Intangible assets 14,100 Total assets acquired 21,327 Accounts payable 738 Accrued liabilities 3,341 Customer deposits 4,225 Deferred tax liability 3,028 Other liabilities 129 Total liabilities acquired 11,461 Total fair value of net assets acquired 9,866 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 29,020 The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of $0.6 million from intangible assets, $0.4 million from additional purchase price payable upon tax election and $0.1 million from other accrued liabilities. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, the balances in the table below as of December 31, 2015 remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of December 31, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 33,674 Additional purchase price paid for tax election 896 Working capital adjustment (279 ) Cash acquired (4,204 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 30,087 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 1,450 Prepaid expenses 120 Property and equipment 93 Intangible assets 14,400 Total assets acquired 16,063 Accounts payable 488 Accrued liabilities 1,557 Customer deposits 4,525 Total liabilities acquired 6,570 Total fair value of net assets acquired 9,493 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 20,594 The following table summarizes the updated allocation of the aggregate purchase price paid and amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. During 2015, the Company made certain purchase accounting measurement period adjustments based on refinements to assumptions used in the preliminary valuation of $0.1 million from contingent consideration, $0.5 million to working capital adjustment, $15,000 from accounts receivable, $0.1 million to intangible assets, $0.1 million to accrued liabilities, $0.1 million to deferred taxes and $0.4 million to goodwill. These adjustments did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, balance sheet, or cash flows for all periods presented, and therefore, were not retrospectively adjusted in the 2014 financial statements. Other than the line items mentioned previously, the balances in the table below as of December 31, 2015 remain unchanged from the balances reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allocation of the purchase price was completed as of December 31, 2015. (in thousands) Purchase price paid as: Cash $ 12,068 Working capital adjustment 458 Contingent consideration 1,145 Cash acquired (943 ) Purchase price, net of cash acquired 12,728 Fair value of net assets acquired: Accounts receivable $ 1,732 Inventory 46 Prepaid expenses 115 Property and equipment 1,280 Intangible assets 3,682 Total assets acquired 6,855 Accounts payable 421 Accrued liabilities 1,057 Customer deposits 569 Deferred tax liability 986 Other liabilities 106 Total liabilities acquired 3,139 Total fair value of net assets acquired 3,716 Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) $ 9,012
Unaudited pro forma results of operations attributable to Viad	The following table summarizes the unaudited pro forma results of operations attributable to Viad, assuming the above acquisitions had each been completed on January 1, 2013: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2014 2013 Revenue $ 1,109,629 $ 1,015,275 Depreciation and amortization $ 38,014 $ 38,981 Income from continuing operations $ 44,636 $ 15,317 Net income attributable to Viad $ 55,833 $ 17,510 Diluted net income per share $ 2.77 $ 0.86 Basic net income per share $ 2.77 $ 0.86

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Inventories	The components of inventories consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Raw materials $ 14,383 $ 16,749 Work in process 13,146 15,652 Inventories $ 27,529 $ 32,401

Other Current Assets (Tables)

Other Current Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Current Assets	Other current assets consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Income tax receivable $ 4,643 $ 1,869 Prepaid vendor payments 2,140 2,689 Prepaid software maintenance 2,026 1,934 Prepaid insurance 2,024 2,170 Prepaid rent 1,406 186 Prepaid taxes 1,261 1,416 Prepaid other 2,777 4,427 Other 1,034 2,749 Other current assets $ 17,311 $ 17,440

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	Property and equipment consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Land and land interests $ 29,032 $ 30,360 Buildings and leasehold improvements 135,381 138,104 Equipment and other 270,957 319,435 Gross property and equipment 435,370 487,899 Accumulated depreciation (246,131 ) (288,328 ) Property and equipment, net $ 189,239 $ 199,571

Other Investments and Assets (T

Other Investments and Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments All Other Investments [Abstract]
Summary of other investments and assets	Other investments and assets consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Cash surrender value of life insurance $ 21,970 $ 20,866 Self-insured liability receivable 5,979 7,728 Workers’ compensation insurance security deposits 4,250 4,250 Other mutual funds 2,192 2,536 Unamortized debt issuance costs 1,572 1,964 Other 3,240 3,330 Total other investments and assets $ 39,203 $ 40,674

Goodwill and Other Intangible44

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of the goodwill balances by component and segment	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were as follows: (in thousands) Marketing & Events U.S. Segment Marketing & Events International Segment Travel & Recreation Group Total Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 62,686 $ 22,611 $ 44,246 $ 129,543 Acquisition of Blitz — 13,504 — 13,504 Acquisition of the West Glacier Properties — — 1,268 1,268 Acquisition of onPeak LLC 27,406 — — 27,406 Acquisition of Travel Planners, Inc. 20,526 — — 20,526 Acquisition of N200 — 8,563 — 8,563 Foreign currency translation adjustments — (2,457 ) (4,156 ) (6,613 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 110,618 42,221 41,358 194,197 Purchase price allocation adjustments 1,682 475 — 2,157 Foreign currency translation adjustments — (3,488 ) (7,070 ) (10,558 ) Disposals (1) — (573 ) — (573 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 112,300 $ 38,635 $ 34,288 $ 185,223 (1) During 2015, the Company partially disposed of certain operations associated with a venue services contract within the Marketing & Events International Segment. Accordingly, goodwill of $0.6 million was included in the carrying amount of those operations, and a loss of $23,000 was recorded in income from continuing operations related to the disposal.
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment	The following table summarizes goodwill by reporting unit and segment: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Marketing & Events Group: Marketing & Events U.S. Segment $ 112,300 $ 110,618 Marketing & Events International Segment: GES EMEA 32,064 34,396 GES Canada 6,571 7,825 Total Marketing & Events Group 150,935 152,839 Travel & Recreation Group: Brewster 29,836 36,906 Alaska Denali Travel 3,184 3,184 Glacier Park 1,268 1,268 Total Travel & Recreation Group 34,288 41,358 Total Goodwill $ 185,223 $ 194,197
Summary of other intangible assets	Intangible assets consisted of the following as of the respective periods: December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Amortized intangible assets: Customer contracts and relationships $ 38,342 $ (7,814 ) $ 30,528 Other 4,401 (2,067 ) 2,334 Total amortized intangible assets 42,743 (9,881 ) 32,862 Unamortized intangible assets: Business licenses 460 — 460 Total $ 43,203 $ (9,881 ) $ 33,322 December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Amortized intangible assets: Customer contracts and relationships $ 41,624 $ (2,961 ) $ 38,663 Other 4,576 (732 ) 3,844 Total amortized intangible assets 46,200 (3,693 ) 42,507 Unamortized intangible assets: Business licenses 460 — 460 Total $ 46,660 $ (3,693 ) $ 42,967
Estimated amortization expense related to amortized intangible assets	Estimated future amortization expense related to amortized intangible assets is as follows (in thousands) Year ending December 31, 2016 $ 6,303 2017 5,492 2018 4,536 2019 4,155 2020 3,616 Thereafter 8,760 Total $ 32,862

Other Current Liabilities (Tabl

Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Current [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities	Other current liabilities consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Continuing operations: Self-insured liability accrual $ 6,891 $ 6,297 Accrued sales and use taxes 4,772 3,624 Accrued employee benefit costs 3,892 3,215 Accrued dividends 2,103 2,107 Deferred rent 548 896 Current portion of pension liability 1,768 1,729 Accrued restructuring 1,757 1,154 Accrued rebates 752 1,600 Accrued professional fees 751 1,228 Accrued foreign income taxes 986 2,370 Other 4,002 2,636 Total continuing operations 28,222 26,856 Discontinued operations: Environmental remediation liabilities 295 350 Self-insured liability accrual 200 173 Other 521 408 Total discontinued operations 1,016 931 Total other current liabilities $ 29,238 $ 27,787

Other Deferred Items and Liab46

Other Deferred Items and Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Other Deferred Items and Liabilities	Other deferred items and liabilities consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Continuing operations: Self-insured liability $ 13,662 $ 13,525 Accrued compensation 7,612 6,824 Self-insured excess liability 5,979 7,728 Deferred rent 5,607 3,939 Foreign deferred tax liability 2,384 2,135 Accrued restructuring 519 555 Other 1,262 3,965 Total continuing operations 37,025 38,671 Discontinued operations: Environmental remediation liabilities 4,177 4,395 Self-insured liability 3,986 4,327 Accrued income taxes 1,151 1,119 Other 997 1,250 Total discontinued operations 10,311 11,091 Total other deferred items and liabilities $ 47,336 $ 49,762

Debt and Capital Lease Obliga47

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	The components of long-term debt and capital lease obligations consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands, except interest rates) 2015 2014 Revolving credit facility and term loan 2.4% and 2.4% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2019 (1) $ 127,500 $ 139,500 Capital lease obligations, 6.1% and 6.0% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2018 1,475 1,520 Total debt 128,975 141,020 Current portion (34,554 ) (27,856 ) Long-term debt and capital lease obligations $ 94,421 $ 113,164 1. Represents the weighted-average interest rate in effect at December 31 for revolving credit facility and term loan borrowings, including any applicable margin. The interest rates do not include amortization of debt issuance costs or commitment fees.
Schedule of Aggregate Annual Maturities of Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations as of December 31, 2015 are as follows: (in thousands) Revolving Credit Agreement Capital Lease Obligations Year ending December 31, 2016 $ 33,750 $ 926 2017 18,750 570 2018 18,750 207 2019 56,250 — 2020 — — Total $ 127,500 $ 1,703 Less: Amount representing interest (228 ) Present value of minimum lease payments $ 1,475

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis	The fair value information related to these assets is summarized in the following tables: Fair (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Money market funds $ 118 $ 118 $ — $ — Other mutual funds 2,192 2,192 — — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 2,310 $ 2,310 $ — $ — Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Money market funds $ 8,518 $ 8,518 $ — $ — Other mutual funds 2,536 2,536 — — Total assets at fair value on a recurring basis $ 11,054 $ 11,054 $ — $ — Liabilities: Earnout contingent consideration liability (1,210 ) — — (1,210 ) Total liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis $ (1,210 ) $ — $ — $ (1,210 )

Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables

Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciliation of basic and diluted income per share	The components of basic and diluted income per share are as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2015 2014 2013 Net income attributable to Viad (diluted) $ 26,606 $ 52,354 $ 21,555 Less: Allocation to non-vested shares (385 ) (970 ) (485 ) Net income allocated to Viad common stockholders (basic) $ 26,221 $ 51,384 $ 21,070 Basic weighted-average outstanding common shares 19,797 19,804 19,850 Additional dilutive shares related to share-based compensation 184 329 415 Diluted weighted-average outstanding shares 19,981 20,133 20,265 Income per share: Basic income attributable to Viad common stockholders $ 1.32 $ 2.59 $ 1.06 Diluted income attributable to Viad common stockholders (1) $ 1.32 $ 2.59 $ 1.06 (1) Diluted income per share amount cannot exceed basic income per share.

Employee Stock Ownership Feat50

Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401Plan (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Stock Ownership Plan	Information regarding ESOP transactions is as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2014 2013 Amounts paid by ESOP for: Debt repayment $ 44 $ 1,280 Interest $ — $ 1 Amounts received from Viad as: Contributions $ 44 $ 1,202 Dividends $ — $ 79

Accumulated Other Comprehensi51

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component are as follows: (in thousands) Unrealized Gains on Investments Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Unrecognized Net Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Credit, Net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 429 $ 30,847 $ (11,259 ) $ 20,017 Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 98 (18,432 ) — (18,334 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax (56 ) — (2,021 ) (2,077 ) Net other comprehensive income (loss) 42 (18,432 ) (2,021 ) (20,411 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 471 $ 12,415 $ (13,280 ) $ (394 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications (55 ) (35,672 ) 1,546 (34,181 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax (70 ) — 469 399 Net other comprehensive income (loss) (125 ) (35,672 ) 2,015 (33,782 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 346 $ (23,257 ) $ (11,265 ) $ (34,176 )
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The following table presents information about reclassification adjustments out of AOCI: Year Ended December 31, Affected Line Item in the Statement Where Net Income is Presented (in thousands) 2015 2014 Unrealized gains on investments $ (112 ) $ (90 ) Income income Tax effect 42 34 Income taxes $ (70 ) $ (56 ) Recognized net actuarial (gain) loss (1) $ 1,180 $ (3,821 ) Amortization of prior service credit (1) (552 ) 565 Tax effect (159 ) 1,235 Income taxes $ 469 $ (2,021 ) (1) Amount included in pension expense. Refer to Note 18 – Pension and Postretirement Benefits.

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Income Before Income Tax	Earnings before income taxes from continuing operations consist of the following: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Foreign $ 35,571 $ 33,349 $ 25,010 United States 2,364 7,938 2,620 Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 37,935 $ 41,287 $ 27,630
Schedule of Income Tax Expense	Significant components of the income tax provision from continuing operations are as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Current: United States: Federal $ (876 ) $ — $ (3,308 ) State 1,558 16 (286 ) Foreign 9,342 9,824 9,606 Total current 10,024 9,840 6,012 Deferred: United States: Federal 1,854 (9,486 ) 2,007 State (164 ) (125 ) 651 Foreign (1,221 ) (120 ) (360 ) Total deferred 469 (9,731 ) 2,298 Income tax expense $ 10,493 $ 109 $ 8,310
Reconciliation of Income Tax Expense	Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Computed income tax expense at statutory federal income tax rate of 35% $ 13,277 35.0 % $ 14,450 35.0 % $ 9,670 35.0 % State income taxes, net of federal provision 1,713 4.5 % 227 0.5 % 345 1.2 % Foreign tax rate differentials (1,181 ) (3.1 )% (1,262 ) (3.1 )% 77 0.3 % U.S. tax on foreign earnings (net of foreign tax credits) (948 ) (2.5 )% (2,168 ) (5.3 )% (1,831 ) (6.6 )% Change in valuation allowance (944 ) (2.5 )% (11,650 ) (28.2 )% (2,184 ) (7.9 )% Proceeds from life insurance — — (133 ) (0.3 )% (196 ) (0.7 )% Return to provision and other adjustments (1,557 ) (4.1 )% (1,401 ) (3.4 )% 1,664 6.0 % Other, net 133 0.4 % 2,046 5.0 % 765 2.8 % Income tax expense $ 10,493 27.7 % $ 109 0.2 % $ 8,310 30.1 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheets are as follows: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Tax credit carryforwards $ 19,529 $ 21,783 Pension, compensation, and other employee benefits 23,212 23,501 Provisions for losses 11,119 12,127 Net operating loss carryforward 4,310 4,886 State income taxes 2,944 2,979 Other deferred income tax assets 3,456 3,927 Total deferred tax assets 64,570 69,203 Valuation allowance (2,837 ) (3,781 ) Foreign deferred tax assets included above (2,460 ) (1,536 ) Net deferred tax assets 59,273 63,886 Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment (3,510 ) (5,856 ) Deferred tax related to life insurance (5,316 ) (4,962 ) Goodwill and other intangible assets (4,038 ) (2,705 ) Other deferred income tax liabilities (1,115 ) (1,452 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (13,979 ) (14,975 ) Foreign deferred tax liabilities included above 3,471 3,671 United States net deferred tax assets $ 48,765 $ 52,582
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	(in thousands) Continuing Operations Discontinued Operations Total Balance at December 31, 2012 $ — $ 636 $ 636 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years 736 — 736 Balance at December 31, 2013 736 636 1,372 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years 1,019 — 1,019 Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes (472 ) — (472 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 1,283 636 1,919 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years 43 — 43 Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years (666 ) — (666 ) Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes (353 ) — (353 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 307 $ 636 $ 943

Pension and Postretirement Be53

Pension and Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income of Viad's postretirement benefit plans	The components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income of Viad’s pension plans included the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 101 $ 87 $ 66 Interest cost 1,018 1,079 1,030 Expected return on plan assets (380 ) (436 ) (400 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 492 407 583 Net periodic benefit cost 1,231 1,137 1,279 Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: Net actuarial loss (gain) (963 ) 3,418 (2,565 ) Reversal of amortization item: Net actuarial loss (492 ) (407 ) (583 ) Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (1,455 ) 3,011 (3,148 ) Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ (224 ) $ 4,148 $ (1,869 ) The components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income of Viad’s postretirement benefit plans included the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 152 $ 129 $ 156 Interest cost 619 640 663 Expected return on plan assets — — — Amortization of prior service credit (552 ) (593 ) (902 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 528 166 518 Net periodic benefit cost 747 342 435 Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: Net actuarial loss (gain) (1,248 ) 1,045 (1,496 ) Prior service credit 3 (1,283 ) (40 ) Reversal of amortization item: Net actuarial loss (528 ) (166 ) (518 ) Prior service credit 552 593 902 Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (1,221 ) 189 (1,152 ) Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ (474 ) $ 531 $ (717 ) The components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income included the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 503 $ 413 $ 534 Interest cost 505 631 702 Expected return on plan assets (583 ) (640 ) (698 ) Recognized net actuarial loss 160 145 248 Net periodic benefit cost 585 549 786 Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income: Net actuarial loss (gain) 182 361 (1,214 ) Reversal of amortization of net actuarial loss (160 ) 145 (248 ) Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) 22 506 (1,462 ) Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ 607 $ 1,055 $ (676 )
Summary of funded status of the plans	The following table indicates the funded status of the plans as of December 31: Postretirement Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Benefit Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 16,012 $ 13,435 $ 11,127 $ 10,536 $ 16,235 $ 16,919 Service cost — — 101 87 152 129 Interest cost 616 644 402 435 619 640 Actuarial adjustments (1,013 ) 2,700 (1,072 ) 649 (1,248 ) 1,011 Plan amendments — — — — 3 (1,283 ) Benefits paid (709 ) (767 ) (509 ) (580 ) (1,188 ) (1,181 ) Benefit obligation at end of year 14,906 16,012 10,049 11,127 14,573 16,235 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 11,198 10,872 — — — 520 Actual return on plan assets (742 ) 364 — — — (34 ) Company contributions 732 729 509 580 1,188 695 Benefits paid (709 ) (767 ) (509 ) (580 ) (1,188 ) (1,181 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year 10,479 11,198 — — — — Funded status at end of year $ (4,427 ) $ (4,814 ) $ (10,049 ) $ (11,127 ) $ (14,573 ) $ (16,235 ) The following table represents the funded status of the plans as of December 31: Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 12,016 $ 11,460 $ 2,756 $ 2,911 Service cost 503 413 — — Interest cost 415 507 89 124 Actuarial adjustments (176 ) 1,042 178 234 Benefits paid (1,115 ) (344 ) (179 ) (211 ) Translation adjustment (1,899 ) (1,062 ) (374 ) (302 ) Benefit obligation at end of year 9,744 12,016 2,470 2,756 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 11,747 11,560 — — Actual return on plan assets 377 983 — — Company contributions 566 604 179 211 Benefits paid (1,115 ) (344 ) (179 ) (211 ) Translation adjustment (1,870 ) (1,056 ) — — Fair value of plan assets at end of year 9,705 11,747 — — Funded status at end of year $ (39 ) $ (269 ) $ (2,470 ) $ (2,756 )
Net amount recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets	The net amounts recognized in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Pension and postretirement benefits” as of December 31 were as follows: Postretirement Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Benefit Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Other current liabilities $ — $ — $ 645 $ 635 $ 1,122 $ 1,094 Non-current liabilities 4,427 4,814 9,404 10,492 13,451 15,141 Net amount recognized $ 4,427 $ 4,814 $ 10,049 $ 11,127 $ 14,573 $ 16,235 The net amounts recognized in Viad’s consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Pension and postretirement benefits” as of December 31 were as follows: Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Other current liabilities $ — $ — $ 162 $ 94 Non-current liabilities 39 318 2,308 2,662 Net amount recognized $ 39 $ 318 $ 2,470 $ 2,756
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income	Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2015 consisted of: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Total Net actuarial loss $ 9,202 $ 2,806 $ 3,795 $ 15,803 Prior service credit — — (2,173 ) (2,173 ) Subtotal 9,202 2,806 1,622 13,630 Less tax effect (3,490 ) (1,064 ) (615 ) (5,169 ) Total $ 5,712 $ 1,742 $ 1,007 $ 8,461 Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2014 consisted of: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Total Net actuarial loss $ 9,442 $ 4,020 $ 5,571 $ 19,033 Prior service credit — — (2,729 ) (2,729 ) Subtotal 9,442 4,020 2,842 16,304 Less tax effect (3,581 ) (1,525 ) (1,078 ) (6,184 ) Total $ 5,861 $ 2,495 $ 1,764 $ 10,120
Fair value of plans' assets by asset class	The fair value of the domestic plans’ assets by asset class was as follows: Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobserved Inputs (in thousands) Total (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Domestic pension plans: Fixed income securities $ 5,453 $ 5,453 $ — $ — U.S. equity securities 4,459 4,459 — — Cash 357 357 — — Other 210 — 210 — Total $ 10,479 $ 10,269 $ 210 $ — Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014 Quoted in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobserved Inputs (in thousands) Total (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Domestic pension plans: Fixed income securities $ 6,534 $ 6,534 $ — $ — U.S. equity securities 3,855 3,855 — — Cash 552 552 — — Other 257 — 257 — Total $ 11,198 $ 10,941 $ 257 $ — The fair value of the foreign pension plans’ assets by asset category was as follows: Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Canadian fixed income securities $ 4,372 $ 4,372 $ — $ — International equity securities 3,896 3,521 375 — U.S. equity securities 1,012 1,012 — — Other 425 425 — — Total $ 9,705 $ 9,330 $ 375 $ — Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Canadian fixed income securities $ 5,367 $ 5,367 $ — $ — International equity securities 4,693 4,273 420 — U.S. equity securities 1,236 1,236 — — Other 451 451 — — Total $ 11,747 $ 11,327 $ 420 $ —
Payments and receipts reflecting expected future service	The following pension and postretirement benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans 2016 $ 834 $ 659 $ 1,146 2017 $ 875 $ 697 $ 1,157 2018 $ 895 $ 722 $ 1,153 2019 $ 922 $ 735 $ 1,123 2020 $ 988 $ 737 $ 1,112 2021-2025 $ 4,879 $ 3,447 $ 5,021 The following payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid: (in thousands) Funded Plans Unfunded Plans 2016 $ 311 $ 166 2017 $ 383 $ 166 2018 $ 395 $ 166 2019 $ 449 $ 165 2020 $ 451 $ 165 2021-2025 $ 2,716 $ 816
Accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	The accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets as of December 31 were as follows: Domestic Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Projected benefit obligation $ 14,906 $ 16,012 $ 10,049 $ 11,127 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 14,906 $ 16,012 $ 9,934 $ 11,014 Fair value of plan assets $ 10,479 $ 11,200 $ — $ — Foreign Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans (in thousands) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Projected benefit obligation $ 9,744 $ 12,016 $ 2,470 $ 2,756 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 9,186 $ 11,268 $ 2,470 $ 2,656 Fair value of plan assets $ 9,705 $ 11,747 $ — $ —
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31 were as follows: Domestic Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Foreign Plans 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Discount rate 4.37 % 4.01 % 4.25 % 3.90 % 4.30 % 4.00 % 3.76 % 3.85 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A 3.00 % 3.00 % N/A N/A 2.31 % 3.00 % Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost were as follows: Domestic Plans Funded Plans Unfunded Plans Postretirement Benefit Plans Foreign Plans 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 2015 2014 Discount rate 3.97 % 4.90 % 3.90 % 4.60 % 4.00 % 4.65 % 3.86 % 4.67 % Expected return on plan assets 3.33 % 4.15 % N/A N/A 0.00 % 0.00 % 4.51 % 5.69 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A 3.00 % 3.00 % N/A N/A 2.31 % 3.00 %
Multi-employer pension plans	The “FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented” column indicates plans for which a financial improvement plan or a rehabilitation plan is either pending or has been implemented. Plan Pension Protection Act Zone Status FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented Viad Contributions Surcharge Paid Expiration Date of Collective- Bargaining Agreement(s) (in thousands) EIN No. 2015 2014 2015 2014 2013 Pension Fund: Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan 91-6145047 1 Green Green No $ 5,632 $ 6,369 $ 5,524 No 5/31/2018 Southern California Local 831—Employer Pension Fund (1) 95-6376874 1 Green Green No 2,485 2,481 2,244 No 8/31/17 Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Pension Fund 36-6130207 1 Yellow Yellow Yes 1,887 1,946 1,614 No 5/31/18 Electrical Contractors Assoc. Chicago Local Union 134, IBEW Joint Pension Trust of Chicago Plan #2 51-6030753 2 Green Green No 1,190 1,081 957 No 6/3/17 IBEW Local Union No 357 Pension Plan A (2) 88-6023284 1 Green Green No 1,150 1,457 1,631 No 6/16/18 Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Plan 36-6044243 1 Red Red Yes 948 1,018 836 No 7/31/18 Southern California IBEW-NECA Pension Fund 95-6392774 1 Yellow Yellow Yes 835 768 184 No continuous National Electrical Benefit Fund 53-0181657 1 Green Green No 771 167 193 No 6/16/18 Southwest Carpenters Pension Trust 95-6042875 1 Green Green No 750 885 812 No 6/30/18 Sign Pictorial & Display Industry Pension Plan (1) 94-6278490 1 Green Green No 541 439 367 No 3/31/18 Machinery Movers Riggers & Mach Erect Local 136 Supplemental Retirement Plan (1) 36-1416355 11 Red Red Yes 502 993 430 Yes 6/30/19 All other funds (3) 3,869 3,491 2,032 Total contributions to defined benefit plans 20,560 21,095 16,824 Total contributions to other plans 1,428 2,057 3,489 Total contributions to multi-employer plans $ 21,988 $ 23,152 $ 20,313 (1) The Company contributed more than 5 percent of total plan contributions for the 2014 and 2013 plan years based on the plans’ Form 5500s. (2) (3 ) Represents participation in 45 pension funds during 2015.

Restructuring Charges (Tables)

Restructuring Charges (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring And Related Activities [Abstract]
Reconciliation of beginning and ending liability balances by major restructuring activity	The table below represents a reconciliation of beginning and ending liability balances by major restructuring activity: Marketing & Events Group Consolidation Other Restructurings (in thousands) Severance & Employee Benefits Facilities Severance & Employee Benefits Facilities Total Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 720 $ 5,571 $ — $ 933 $ 7,224 Restructuring charges (recoveries) 2,931 (315 ) 1,869 (692 ) 3,793 Cash payments (2,411 ) (1,691 ) (498 ) (241 ) (4,841 ) Adjustment to liability — — (478 ) — (478 ) Balance at December 31, 2013 1,240 3,565 893 — 5,698 Restructuring charges (recoveries) 2,358 (828 ) 107 — 1,637 Cash payments (3,055 ) (1,376 ) (845 ) — (5,276 ) Adjustment to liability — (200 ) 85 — (115 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 543 1,161 240 — 1,944 Restructuring charges 1,767 587 602 — 2,956 Cash payments (1,514 ) (457 ) (601 ) — (2,572 ) Adjustment to liability (45 ) — (7 ) — (52 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 751 $ 1,291 $ 234 $ — $ 2,276

Leases and Other (Tables)

Leases and Other (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Future minimum rental payments and related sublease rentals receivable	As of December 31, 2015, Viad’s future minimum rental payments and related sublease rentals receivable with respect to non-cancelable operating leases with terms in excess of one year were as follows: (in thousands) Rental Payments Receivable Under Subleases 2016 $ 20,962 $ 1,526 2017 18,567 1,544 2018 16,437 1,490 2019 13,027 1,005 2020 11,413 509 Thereafter 10,122 253 Total $ 90,528 $ 6,327
Net rent expense under operating leases	Net rent expense under operating leases consisted of the following: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Minimum rentals $ 41,564 $ 37,707 $ 34,201 Sublease rentals (3,457 ) (6,884 ) (6,815 ) Total rentals, net $ 38,107 $ 30,823 $ 27,386

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation of income statement items from reportable segments	Viad’s reportable segments with reconciliations to consolidated totals are as follows: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenue: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. Segment $ 720,882 $ 710,835 $ 628,856 International Segment 272,634 249,649 229,312 Intersegment eliminations (16,638 ) (16,016 ) (13,264 ) Total Marketing & Events Group 976,878 944,468 844,904 Travel & Recreation Group 112,170 120,519 108,443 Total revenue $ 1,089,048 $ 1,064,987 $ 953,347 Segment operating income: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. Segment $ 14,563 $ 21,400 $ 11,024 International Segment 12,211 10,339 9,068 Total Marketing & Events Group 26,774 31,739 20,092 Travel & Recreation Group 27,810 28,127 21,819 Segment operating income 54,584 59,866 41,911 Corporate activities (9,720 ) (14,348 ) (6,755 ) Operating income 44,864 45,518 35,156 Interest income 658 305 550 Interest expense (4,535 ) (2,015 ) (1,234 ) Restructuring (charges) recoveries: Marketing & Events U.S. Segment (541 ) 278 409 Marketing & Events International Segment (1,813 ) (1,808 ) (2,362 ) Travel & Recreation Group (200 ) 41 (809 ) Corporate (402 ) (148 ) (1,031 ) Impairment charges: Marketing & Events U.S. Segment — — (658 ) Marketing & Events International Segment — (884 ) (294 ) Travel & Recreation Group (96 ) — (2,097 ) Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 37,935 $ 41,287 $ 27,630
Reconciliation of assets from reportable segments	December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Assets: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. $ 294,618 $ 304,727 $ 194,422 International 115,494 116,842 81,058 Travel & Recreation Group 195,527 199,986 209,611 Corporate and other 86,656 93,388 76,841 $ 692,295 $ 714,943 $ 561,932 Depreciation and amortization: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. $ 18,658 $ 16,066 $ 14,906 International 8,435 6,311 5,566 Travel & Recreation Group 7,974 8,232 7,319 Corporate and other 164 183 176 $ 35,231 $ 30,792 $ 27,967 Capital expenditures: Marketing & Events Group: U.S. $ 8,066 $ 14,515 $ 8,278 International 8,366 4,134 4,332 Travel & Recreation Group 13,107 10,740 23,108 Corporate and other 300 — 401 $ 29,839 $ 29,389 $ 36,119
Financial information by major geographic area	The table below presents the financial information by major geographic area: December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Revenue: United States $ 726,436 $ 718,538 $ 637,482 EMEA 220,046 192,674 166,931 Canada 142,566 153,775 148,934 Total revenue $ 1,089,048 $ 1,064,987 $ 953,347 Long-lived assets: United States $ 141,051 $ 130,401 $ 132,315 EMEA 15,714 14,215 10,055 Canada 71,677 78,193 82,986 Total long-lived assets $ 228,442 $ 222,809 $ 225,356

Discontinued Operations (Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures	The following summarizes Glacier Park’s expired concession contract operating results, which are presented in income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax, in Viad’s Consolidated Statements of Operations: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2014 2013 Total revenue $ — $ 19,445 Costs and expenses (93 ) (15,462 ) Impairment charges — (2,364 ) Restructuring charges — (98 ) Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes (93 ) 1,521 Income tax benefit (expense) 45 (280 ) Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (48 ) 1,241 Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax 13,343 — Income from discontinued operations 13,295 1,241 Income from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest (2,825 ) (248 ) Income from discontinued operations attributable to Viad $ 10,470 $ 993
Reconciliation of Noncontrolling Interest, Income Statement	The following is a reconciliation of net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest: Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Income (loss) from continuing operations $ 442 $ 388 $ (117 ) Income from discontinued operations — 2,825 248 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest $ 442 $ 3,213 $ 131

Condensed Consolidated Quarte58

Condensed Consolidated Quarterly Results (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly financial information	The following table sets forth selected unaudited consolidated quarterly financial information: 2015 2014 (in thousands, except per share data) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Revenue: $ 264,396 $ 317,035 $ 255,946 $ 251,671 $ 285,641 $ 256,391 $ 299,802 $ 223,155 Operating income (loss): Ongoing operations (1) $ (1,125 ) $ 36,286 $ 14,571 $ 4,852 $ 13,361 $ 14,136 $ 33,013 $ (644 ) Corporate activities (2,810 ) (1,983 ) (1,354 ) (3,573 ) (2,039 ) (1,991 ) (3,468 ) (6,850 ) Restructuring (charges) recoveries (216 ) (1,069 ) (257 ) (1,414 ) (211 ) (1,369 ) (234 ) 177 Impairment charges — — — (96 ) — (884 ) — — Operating income (loss) $ (4,151 ) $ 33,234 $ 12,960 $ (231 ) $ 11,111 $ 9,892 $ 29,311 $ (7,317 ) Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Viad (2) $ (1,908 ) $ 22,311 $ 7,393 $ (796 ) $ 9,312 $ 7,978 $ 30,755 $ (7,255 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Viad (2) $ (2,056 ) $ 22,389 $ 7,230 $ (957 ) $ 21,882 $ 6,742 $ 29,620 $ (5,889 ) Basic and Diluted income (loss) per common share: (2) (3) Continuing operations attributable to Viad $ (0.10 ) $ 1.11 $ 0.37 $ (0.04 ) $ 0.46 $ 0.39 $ 1.53 $ (0.37 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Viad common stockholders $ (0.10 ) $ 1.12 $ 0.36 $ (0.05 ) $ 1.08 $ 0.33 $ 1.48 $ (0.30 ) (1) Represents revenue less costs of services and products sold. (2) Includes $10.1 million benefit associated with the 2014 third quarter release of the valuation allowance relating to foreign income tax credits. (3) The sum of quarterly income per share amounts may not equal annual income per share due to rounding.

Summary of Significant Accoun59

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)Segment	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Remaining maturities of highly-liquid investments	three months or less
Share based compensation arrangements requisite service period	3 years
Percent of shares vest on the third anniversary of the grant	40.00%
Percent of increments over the subsequent two anniversary dates	30.00%
Deferred income taxes	$ 50,137	$ 52,582
Adjustments for New Accounting Principle, Early Adoption
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Deferred income taxes		$ 22,900
Liability Based Awards
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Share based compensation arrangements requisite service period	3 years
Other Restricted Stock
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Share based compensation arrangements requisite service period	5 years
Stock Options
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Share based compensation arrangements requisite service period	5 years
Minimum | Restricted Stock
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Share based compensation arrangements vesting period	3 years
Maximum | Restricted Stock
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Share based compensation arrangements vesting period	5 years
Building | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	15 years
Building | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	40 years
Equipment | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Equipment | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	12 years
Computer Software, Development Costs | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Computer Software, Development Costs | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	10 years
Travel & Recreation Group
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of business lines | Segment	4

Share-Based Compensation - Narr

Share-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Jan. 24, 2014	Oct. 25, 2013	Mar. 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Feb. 28, 2014	Feb. 28, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Useful Life of the 2007 plan								10 years
Minimum number of shares of common stock available for grant								1,700,000
Additional number of shares of common stock available for grant								1,500,000
Shares Available for Grant								959,330
Capitalized share-based compensation costs								$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Dividends declared per common share (USD per share)	$ 1.50	$ 2.50						$ 0.40	$ 1.90	$ 2.90
Repurchase of Common Stock for Employee Tax Withholding Obligations amount, shares								35,649	72,996	50,156
Repurchase of Common Stock for Employee Tax Withholding Obligations amount								$ 1,000,000	$ 1,800,000	$ 1,300,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross								0	0	0
Options outstanding, Shares								63,773	247,590
Options exercisable, Shares								63,773	247,590
Weighted average exercise price								$ 16.62	$ 17.82
Weighted average remaining contractual life								3 years 2 months 12 days
Performance unit incentive plan (“PUP”)
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Award vesting period								3 years
Liability awards recorded								$ 2,400,000	$ 3,500,000
Payments To Employees			$ 2,500,000		$ 2,900,000					$ 0
Restricted stock units
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Grant date fair value of restricted stock vested								2,200,000	4,500,000	3,500,000
Unamortized cost								$ 2,700,000
Recognition Period of Unrecognized cost								1 year 4 months 24 days
Restricted stock units
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Payments To Employees				$ 300,000		$ 200,000	$ 300,000
Liabilities related to restricted stock								$ 300,000	500,000
Stock Options
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Unamortized cost								0
Restructuring Charges
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense and reversal								45,000	(100,000)	700,000
Restructuring Charges | Performance unit incentive plan (“PUP”)
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense and reversal								$ 45,000	$ (100,000)	$ 300,000

Share-Based Compensation - Summ

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Share-Based Compensation Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of share-based compensation expense
Share-based compensation before income tax benefit	$ 3,848	$ 2,930	$ 5,221
Income tax benefit	(1,454)	(1,102)	(1,936)
Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit	2,394	1,828	3,285
Restricted Stock
Summary of share-based compensation expense
Share-based compensation before income tax benefit	2,111	2,495	3,073
Performance unit incentive plan (“PUP”)
Summary of share-based compensation expense
Share-based compensation before income tax benefit	1,692	359	1,864
Restricted stock units
Summary of share-based compensation expense
Share-based compensation before income tax benefit	45	76	177
Stock Options
Summary of share-based compensation expense
Share-based compensation before income tax benefit	$ 0	$ 0	$ 107

Share-Based Compensation - Su62

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Activity of the Outstanding Share-Based Compensation Awards (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Restricted Stock
Summary of activity of the outstanding share-based compensation awards
Beginning Balance, Shares | shares	328,602
Granted, Shares | shares	92,850
Vested, Shares | shares	(109,050)
Forfeited, Shares | shares	(33,185)
Ending Balance, Shares | shares	279,217
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 23.30
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	27.52
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	20.51
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	24.51
Ending Balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 25.65
Performance unit incentive plan (“PUP”)
Summary of activity of the outstanding share-based compensation awards
Beginning Balance, Shares | shares	267,120
Granted, Shares | shares	92,100
Vested, Shares | shares	(103,555)
Forfeited, Shares | shares	(24,500)
Ending Balance, Shares | shares	231,165
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 23.51
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	27.30
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	20.60
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	25.23
Ending Balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 26.15
Restricted stock units
Summary of activity of the outstanding share-based compensation awards
Beginning Balance, Shares | shares	25,370
Granted, Shares | shares	4,800
Vested, Shares | shares	(11,623)
Forfeited, Shares | shares	(2,100)
Ending Balance, Shares | shares	16,447
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 23.17
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	27.35
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	20.91
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	25.46
Ending Balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 25.69

Share-Based Compensation - Su63

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Stock Option Activity (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Summary of stock option activity
Options outstanding, Beginning Balance (shares)	247,590
Exercised (shares)	(54,076)
Forfeited or Expired (shares)	(129,741)
Options outstanding, Ending Balance (shares)	63,773
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Options Outstanding, Beginning Balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 17.82
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share) | $ / shares	16.62
Forfeited or Expired, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share) | $ / shares	18.91
Options Outstanding, Ending Balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 16.62
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Options outstanding, Beginning Balance, Options Exercisable (shares)	247,590
Options outstanding, Ending Balance, Options Exercisable (shares)	63,773

Share-Based Compensation - Su64

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Additional Information on Stock Options (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Total intrinsic value of stock options outstanding	$ 740	$ 2,251	$ 2,723
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised	1,474	1,616	1,611
Fair value of stock options vested	0	0	532
Cash received from the exercise of stock options	898	1,155	777
Tax benefits realized for tax deductions related to stock option exercises	$ 104	$ 461	$ 404

Acquisition of Businesses - Nar

Acquisition of Businesses - Narrative (Details) € in Millions, £ in Millions

Oct. 05, 2015USD ($)

Oct. 05, 2015EUR (€)

Jan. 31, 2015USD ($)

Jan. 31, 2015GBP (£)

Nov. 30, 2014USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2014EUR (€)

Oct. 31, 2014USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2014GBP (£)

Jul. 31, 2014USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2014GBP (£)

Feb. 28, 2013USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2004USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2014EUR (€)

Feb. 28, 2013GBP (£)

West Glacier, Apgar Village, and other operations

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price

$ 16,544,000

Liability for working capital adjustment

300,000

Goodwill expected to be tax deductible, term of recognition

15 years

Acquisition Related Costs

$ 200,000

Intangible assets

$ 189,000

Weighted average useful life of intangibles

3 years 6 months

Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

$ 4,600,000

Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

1,500,000

Working capital adjustment

$ 320,000

Blitz Communication Group Limited

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price

$ 24,416,000

£ 15

Acquisition Related Costs

$ 100,000

800,000

Intangible assets

$ 8,692,000

Weighted average useful life of intangibles

6 years 10 months 24 days

6 years 10 months 24 days

Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

10,100,000

Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

400,000

Acquisition adjustment for property and equipment

49,000

Acquisition adjustment for intangibles

16,000

Acquisition adjustment for accrued lease obligations

200,000

Acquisition adjustment for deferred taxes

200,000

Acquisition adjustment for goodwill

22,000

onPeak LLC

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price

$ 42,950,000

Goodwill expected to be tax deductible, term of recognition

15 years

Acquisition Related Costs

200,000

500,000

Intangible assets

$ 14,100,000

Weighted average useful life of intangibles

9 years 10 months 24 days

Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

2,700,000

Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

700,000

Acquisition adjustment for intangibles

200,000

Acquisition adjustment for deferred taxes

1,400,000

Acquisition adjustment for goodwill

1,600,000

Escrow deposit

$ 4,100,000

Acquisition adjustment for other non-current assets

200,000

Acquisition adjustment for other liabilities

200,000

Goodwill deductible

9,900,000

Travel Planners, Inc

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price

$ 33,674,000

Goodwill expected to be tax deductible, term of recognition

15 years

Acquisition Related Costs

200,000

500,000

Intangible assets

$ 14,400,000

Weighted average useful life of intangibles

9 years 9 months 18 days

Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

3,400,000

Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

500,000

Acquisition adjustment for intangibles

600,000

Escrow deposit

$ 8,800,000

Working capital adjustment

$ (279,000)

Additional payment of consideration

$ 900,000

Payable due to tax election

400,000

Acquisition adjustment for accrued liabilities

100,000

N200 Limited And Affiliates

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price

$ 12,068,000

€ 9.7

Acquisition Related Costs

200,000

1,000,000

Intangible assets

$ 3,682,000

Weighted average useful life of intangibles

7 years 4 months 24 days

7 years 4 months 24 days

Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

400,000

Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

200,000

Acquisition adjustment for intangibles

100,000

Acquisition adjustment for deferred taxes

100,000

Acquisition adjustment for goodwill

400,000

Working capital adjustment

$ 458,000

Acquisition adjustment for accrued liabilities

100,000

Contingent liability | €

€ 1

Payment of contingent liability

$ 1,100,000

€ 1

Acquisition adjustment for contingent consideration

100,000

Acquisition adjustment for working capital adjustment

500,000

Acquisition adjustment for accounts receivable

15,000

Resource Creative Limited

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase price

$ 600,000

Contingent liability | £

£ 0.2

Payment of contingent liability

$ 100,000

£ 0.1

$ 200,000

£ 0.1

Blitz Communication, West Glacier, onPeak LLC, Travel Planners Inc, and N200 Limited and Affiliates [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition Related Costs

$ 600,000

$ 3,000,000

Acquisition of Businesses - Sch

Acquisition of Businesses - Schedule of Recognized Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions, £ in Millions	1 Months Ended						12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2014EUR (€)	Oct. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014GBP (£)	Jul. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price, net of cash acquired							$ 430	$ 120,251	$ 647
Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”)							$ 185,223	$ 194,197	$ 129,543
West Glacier, Apgar Village, and other operations
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash						$ 16,544
Working capital adjustment						320
Purchase price, net of cash acquired						16,864
Inventory						1,374
Prepaid expenses						24
Property and equipment						14,510
Intangible assets						189
Total assets acquired						16,097
Accrued liabilities						35
Customer deposits						402
Other liabilities						64
Total liabilities acquired						501
Total fair value of net assets acquired						15,596
Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”)						$ 1,268
Blitz Communication Group Limited
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash				$ 24,416	£ 15
Cash acquired				(190)
Purchase price, net of cash acquired				24,226
Accounts receivable				264
Inventory				433
Prepaid expenses				410
Property and equipment				5,951
Intangible assets				8,692
Total assets acquired				15,750
Accounts payable				1,232
Accrued liabilities				2,246
Customer deposits				199
Deferred tax liability				468
Revolving credit facility				488
Accrued dilapidations				417
Total liabilities acquired				5,050
Total fair value of net assets acquired				10,700
Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”)				$ 13,526
onPeak LLC
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash			$ 42,950
Cash acquired			(4,064)
Purchase price, net of cash acquired			38,886
Accounts receivable			4,008
Prepaid expenses			640
Property and equipment			2,450
Other non-current assets			129
Intangible assets			14,100
Total assets acquired			21,327
Accounts payable			738
Accrued liabilities			3,341
Customer deposits			4,225
Deferred tax liability			3,028
Other liabilities			129
Total liabilities acquired			11,461
Total fair value of net assets acquired			9,866
Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”)			29,020
Travel Planners, Inc
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash			33,674
Additional purchase price paid for tax election			896
Working capital adjustment			(279)
Cash acquired			(4,204)
Purchase price, net of cash acquired			30,087
Accounts receivable			1,450
Prepaid expenses			120
Property and equipment			93
Intangible assets			14,400
Total assets acquired			16,063
Accounts payable			488
Accrued liabilities			1,557
Customer deposits			4,525
Total liabilities acquired			6,570
Total fair value of net assets acquired			9,493
Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”)			$ 20,594
N200 Limited And Affiliates
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash	$ 12,068	€ 9.7
Working capital adjustment	458
Contingent consideration	1,145
Cash acquired	(943)
Purchase price, net of cash acquired	12,728
Accounts receivable	1,732
Inventory	46
Prepaid expenses	115
Property and equipment	1,280
Intangible assets	3,682
Total assets acquired	6,855
Accounts payable	421
Accrued liabilities	1,057
Customer deposits	569
Deferred tax liability	986
Other liabilities	106
Total liabilities acquired	3,139
Total fair value of net assets acquired	3,716
Excess purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”)	$ 9,012

Acquisition of Businesses - Una

Acquisition of Businesses - Unaudited Pro Forma (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 1,109,629	$ 1,015,275
Depreciation and amortization	38,014	38,981
Income from continuing operations	44,636	15,317
Net income attributable to Viad	$ 55,833	$ 17,510
Diluted net income per share	$ 2.77	$ 0.86
Basic net income per share	$ 2.77	$ 0.86

Inventories - Components of Inv

Inventories - Components of Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Components of Inventories
Raw materials	$ 14,383	$ 16,749
Work in process	13,146	15,652
Inventories	$ 27,529	$ 32,401

Other Current Assets (Details)

Other Current Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax receivable	$ 4,643	$ 1,869
Prepaid vendor payments	2,140	2,689
Prepaid software maintenance	2,026	1,934
Prepaid insurance	2,024	2,170
Prepaid rent	1,406	186
Prepaid taxes	1,261	1,416
Prepaid other	2,777	4,427
Other	1,034	2,749
Other current assets	$ 17,311	$ 17,440

Property and Equipment - Schedu

Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property and equipment	$ 435,370	$ 487,899
Accumulated depreciation	(246,131)	(288,328)
Property and equipment, net	189,239	199,571
Land and land interests
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property and equipment	29,032	30,360
Buildings and leasehold improvements
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property and equipment	135,381	138,104
Equipment and other
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property and equipment	$ 270,957	$ 319,435

Property and Equipment - Narrat

Property and Equipment - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Net carrying amount of capitalized software	$ 12,300				$ 17,000				$ 12,300	$ 17,000
Leasehold interests	435,370				487,899				435,370	487,899
Depreciation expense									28,100	28,100	$ 27,400
Asset Impairment Charges	96	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	0	$ 0	$ 884	$ 0	96	884	3,049
Travel & Recreation Group
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Asset Impairment Charges									96
Travel & Recreation Group | Leasehold Land Interests
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Leasehold interests	$ 7,700				$ 9,100				$ 7,700	9,100
Marketing and Events Group
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Asset Impairment Charges										$ 900	$ 1,000

Other Investments and Assets -

Other Investments and Assets - Summary of Other Investments and Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments All Other Investments [Abstract]
Cash surrender value of life insurance	$ 21,970	$ 20,866
Self-insured liability receivable	5,979	7,728
Workers’ compensation insurance security deposits	4,250	4,250
Other mutual funds	2,192	2,536
Unamortized debt issuance costs	1,572	1,964
Other	3,240	3,330
Total other investments and assets	$ 39,203	$ 40,674

Goodwill and Other Intangible73

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of Goodwill Balances by Component and Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013		$ 194,197	$ 129,543
Business acquisitions		2,157
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(10,558)	(6,613)
Disposals	[1]	(573)
Balance at December 31, 2014		185,223	194,197
Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013		110,618	62,686
Business acquisitions		1,682
Foreign currency translation adjustments		0	0
Disposals	[1]	0
Balance at December 31, 2014		112,300	110,618
Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013		42,221	22,611
Business acquisitions		475
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(3,488)	(2,457)
Disposals	[1]	(573)
Balance at December 31, 2014		38,635	42,221
Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013		41,358	44,246
Business acquisitions		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(7,070)	(4,156)
Disposals	[1]	0
Balance at December 31, 2014		$ 34,288	41,358
Blitz Communication Group Limited
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			13,504
Blitz Communication Group Limited | Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
Blitz Communication Group Limited | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			13,504
Blitz Communication Group Limited | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
West Glacier Motel and Cabins
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			1,268
West Glacier Motel and Cabins | Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
West Glacier Motel and Cabins | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
West Glacier Motel and Cabins | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			1,268
onPeak LLC
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			27,406
onPeak LLC | Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			27,406
onPeak LLC | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
onPeak LLC | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
Travel Planners, Inc
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			20,526
Travel Planners, Inc | Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			20,526
Travel Planners, Inc | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
Travel Planners, Inc | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
N200 Limited And Affiliates
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			8,563
N200 Limited And Affiliates | Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			0
N200 Limited And Affiliates | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			8,563
N200 Limited And Affiliates | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business acquisitions			$ 0
[1]	(1) During 2015, the Company partially disposed of certain operations associated with a venue services contract within the Marketing & Events International Segment. Accordingly, goodwill of $0.6 million was included in the carrying amount of those operations, and a loss of $23,000 was recorded in income from continuing operations related to the disposal.

Goodwill and Other Intangible74

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of Goodwill Balances by Component and Segment (Parenthetical) (Details) - USD ($)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Amount of goodwill included in the carrying amount of disposal operations	[1]	$ 573,000
Goodwill impairment charge			$ 2,097,000
Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Amount of goodwill included in the carrying amount of disposal operations	[1]	573,000
Goodwill impairment charge		$ 23,000
[1]	(1) During 2015, the Company partially disposed of certain operations associated with a venue services contract within the Marketing & Events International Segment. Accordingly, goodwill of $0.6 million was included in the carrying amount of those operations, and a loss of $23,000 was recorded in income from continuing operations related to the disposal.

Goodwill and Other Intangible75

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill by Reporting Unit and Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	$ 185,223	$ 194,197	$ 129,543
Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	112,300	110,618	62,686
Marketing & Events U.S. Segment | United States
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	112,300	110,618
Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	38,635	42,221	22,611
Marketing & Events International Segment | GES EMEA
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	32,064	34,396
Marketing & Events International Segment | GES Canada
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	6,571	7,825
Marketing and Events Group
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	150,935	152,839
Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	34,288	41,358	$ 44,246
Travel & Recreation Group | Brewster
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	29,836	36,906
Travel & Recreation Group | Alaska Denali Travel
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	3,184	3,184
Travel & Recreation Group | Glacier Park
Goodwill by reporting unit and segment
Goodwill	$ 1,268	$ 1,268

Goodwill and Other Intangible76

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Accumulated Impairment Loss on Goodwill	$ 229.7	$ 229.7
Intangible asset amortization expense	$ 7.2	$ 2.7	$ 1.3
Customer Contracts
Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	8 years 2 months 12 days
Other
Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	3 years 1 month 6 days
Marketing & Events U.S. Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of estimated fair values	146.00%
GES EMEA | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of estimated fair values	132.00%
GES Canada | Marketing & Events International Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of estimated fair values	91.00%
Brewster | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of estimated fair values	146.00%
Alaska Denali Travel | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of estimated fair values	48.00%
Glacier Park | Travel & Recreation Group
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of estimated fair values	10.00%

Goodwill and Other Intangible77

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Amortized intangible assets, Gross Carrying Value	$ 42,743	$ 46,200
Accumulated Amortization	(9,881)	(3,693)
Amortized intangible assets, Net Carrying Value	32,862	42,507
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill)	43,203	46,660
Other intangible assets, net	33,322	42,967
Customer contracts and relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Amortized intangible assets, Gross Carrying Value	38,342	41,624
Accumulated Amortization	(7,814)	(2,961)
Amortized intangible assets, Net Carrying Value	30,528	38,663
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Amortized intangible assets, Gross Carrying Value	4,401	4,576
Accumulated Amortization	(2,067)	(732)
Amortized intangible assets, Net Carrying Value	2,334	3,844
Business licenses
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Accumulated Amortization	0	0
Unamortized intangible assets, Gross Carrying Value	$ 460	$ 460

Goodwill and Other Intangible78

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Estimated Amortization Expense Related to Amortized Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Estimated amortization expense related to amortized intangible assets
2,016	$ 6,303
2,017	5,492
2,018	4,536
2,019	4,155
2,020	3,616
Thereafter	8,760
Amortized intangible assets, Net Carrying Value	$ 32,862	$ 42,507

Other Current Liabilities - Sch

Other Current Liabilities - Schedule of Other Current Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Continuing operations:
Self-insured liability accrual	$ 6,891	$ 6,297
Accrued sales and use taxes	4,772	3,624
Accrued employee benefit costs	3,892	3,215
Accrued dividends	2,103	2,107
Deferred rent	548	896
Current portion of pension liability	1,768	1,729
Accrued restructuring	1,757	1,154
Accrued rebates	752	1,600
Accrued professional fees	751	1,228
Accrued foreign income taxes	986	2,370
Other	4,002	2,636
Total continuing operations	28,222	26,856
Discontinued operations:
Environmental remediation liabilities	295	350
Self-insured liability accrual	200	173
Other	521	408
Total discontinued operations	1,016	931
Total other current liabilities	$ 29,238	$ 27,787

Other Deferred Items and Liab80

Other Deferred Items and Liabilities - Schedule of Other Deferred Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Continuing operations:
Self-insured liability	$ 13,662	$ 13,525
Accrued compensation	7,612	6,824
Self-insured excess liability	5,979	7,728
Deferred rent	5,607	3,939
Foreign deferred tax liability	2,384	2,135
Accrued restructuring	519	555
Other	1,262	3,965
Total continuing operations	37,025	38,671
Discontinued operations:
Environmental remediation liabilities	4,177	4,395
Self-insured liability	3,986	4,327
Accrued income taxes	1,151	1,119
Other	997	1,250
Total discontinued operations	10,311	11,091
Total other deferred items and liabilities	$ 47,336	$ 49,762

Debt and Capital Lease Obliga81

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations - Schedule of Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Revolving credit facility and term loan 2.4% and 2.4% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2019 (1)	[1]	$ 127,500	$ 139,500
Capital lease obligations, 6.1% and 6.0% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2018		1,475	1,520
Total debt		128,975	141,020
Current portion		(34,554)	(27,856)
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations		$ 94,421	$ 113,164
[1]	(1) Represents the weighted-average interest rate in effect at December 31 for revolving credit facility and term loan borrowings, including any applicable margin. The interest rates do not include amortization of debt issuance costs or commitment fees.

Debt and Capital Lease Obliga82

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)		Jan. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 22, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	May. 18, 2011
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Interest rate on credit facility							2.40%	2.40%
Weighted interest rate on long term debt					6.10%		6.10%	6.00%
Fixed charge coverage ratio							218.00%
Leverage ratio							167.00%
Balance of long term debt					$ 128,975,000		$ 128,975,000	$ 141,020,000
Revolving credit facility and term loan 2.4% and 2.4% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2019 (1)	[1]				127,500,000		127,500,000	139,500,000
Capital lease obligations, 6.1% and 6.0% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2018					1,475,000		1,475,000	1,520,000
Remaining borrowing capacity on line of credit					158,700,000		158,700,000
Letters of credit outstanding					1,300,000		1,300,000
Maximum potential amount of future payments					10,400,000		$ 10,400,000
Recourse provisions							There are no recourse provisions that would enable Viad to recover from third parties any payments made under the guarantees
Accumulated Amortization					$ 9,881,000		$ 9,881,000	$ 3,693,000
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate					3.20%		3.20%	4.00%	4.20%
Fair value of debt					$ 113,900,000		$ 113,900,000	$ 123,000,000
Acquisitions Consummated Between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Leverage ratio				225.00%
Acquisitions Consummated After December 31, 2016
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Leverage ratio				200.00%
Maximum | Acquisitions Consummated on or Prior to December 31, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Leverage ratio				250.00%
Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility and term loan 2.4% and 2.4% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2019 (1)					15,000,000		$ 15,000,000
Commitment fee percentage on line of credit							0.35%
Collateral on line of credit							Furthermore, there are no collateral or similar arrangements whereby Viad could recover payments.
Term Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility and term loan 2.4% and 2.4% weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due through 2019 (1)					112,500,000		$ 112,500,000
Capital Leases
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Gross amount of assets recorded under capital leases					3,500,000		3,500,000	3,500,000
Accumulated Amortization					2,100,000		$ 2,100,000	$ 2,100,000
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maturity date				Dec. 22, 2019
Annual share repurchase limit					$ 20,000,000
Leverage ratio required for dividend or share activity					200.00%
Required level of restricted cash					$ 100,000,000
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Fixed charge coverage ratio				175.00%
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Minimum | Scenario Forecast
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Fixed charge coverage ratio						200.00%
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Leverage ratio				300.00%
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Maximum | Scenario Forecast
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Leverage ratio		250.00%	275.00%
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Senior Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowing capacity on line of credit				$ 300,000,000
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowing capacity on line of credit				175,000,000						$ 180,000,000
Additional borrowing capacity on line of credit				100,000,000
Line of Credit borrowings used to support letter of credit				40,000,000
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Term Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowing capacity on line of credit				$ 125,000,000
Credit Agreement Amendment
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Fixed charge coverage ratio							175.00%
Leverage ratio							350.00%
Leverage ratio required for dividend or share activity							250.00%
Maximum leverage ratio for acquisition							300.00%
Maximum leverage ratio for unsecured debt							300.00%
Annual share repurchase limit on leverage ratio basis					$ 20,000,000
Top Tier Foreign Subsidiaries | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percent of lenders security interest on capital stock foreign subsidiary					65.00%
[1]	(1) Represents the weighted-average interest rate in effect at December 31 for revolving credit facility and term loan borrowings, including any applicable margin. The interest rates do not include amortization of debt issuance costs or commitment fees.

Debt and Capital Lease Obliga83

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations - Schedule of Aggregate Annual Maturities of Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, 2016	$ 926
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, 2017	570
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, 2018	207
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, 2019	0
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, 2020	0
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Total	1,703
Capital Leases, Interest Included in Payments	(228)
Capital Leases, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments	1,475
Revolving Credit Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving Credit, Maturity, 2016	33,750
Revolving Credit, Maturity, 2017	18,750
Revolving Credit, Maturity, 2018	18,750
Revolving Credit, Maturity, 2019	56,250
Revolving Credit, Maturity, Total	$ 127,500

Fair Value Measurements - Recur

Fair Value Measurements - Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	$ 2,310	$ 11,054
Liabilities		(1,210)
Earnout contingent consideration liability
Fair value information related to assets
Liabilities		(1,210)
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	2,310	11,054
Liabilities		0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Earnout contingent consideration liability
Fair value information related to assets
Liabilities		0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	0	0
Liabilities		0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Earnout contingent consideration liability
Fair value information related to assets
Liabilities		0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	0	0
Liabilities		(1,210)
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Earnout contingent consideration liability
Fair value information related to assets
Liabilities		(1,210)
Money market funds
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	118	8,518
Money market funds | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	118	8,518
Money market funds | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	0	0
Money market funds | Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	0	0
Other mutual funds
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	2,192	2,536
Other mutual funds | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	2,192	2,536
Other mutual funds | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	0	0
Other mutual funds | Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3)
Fair value information related to assets
Assets	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements - Narra

Fair Value Measurements - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Unrealized gains on the investments after-tax	$ 346,000	$ 471,000
Money market funds
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Unrealized gains on the investments	0
Other mutual funds
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Unrealized gains on the investments	600,000	800,000
Unrealized gains on the investments after-tax	300,000	500,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	2,310,000	11,054,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Money market funds
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	118,000	8,518,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Other mutual funds
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 2,192,000	$ 2,536,000

Income (Loss) Per Share - Recon

Income (Loss) Per Share - Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Income Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Numerator:
Net income attributable to Viad (diluted)		$ (957)	$ 7,230	$ 22,389	$ (2,056)	$ (5,889)	$ 29,620	$ 6,742	$ 21,882	$ 26,606	$ 52,354	$ 21,555
Less: Allocation to non-vested shares										(385)	(970)	(485)
Net income allocated to Viad common stockholders (basic)										$ 26,221	$ 51,384	$ 21,070
Denominator:
Basic weighted-average outstanding common shares										19,797	19,804	19,850
Additional dilutive shares related to share-based compensation										184	329	415
Diluted weighted-average outstanding shares										19,981	20,133	20,265
Basic income attributable to Viad common stockholders										$ 1.32	$ 2.59	$ 1.06
Diluted income attributable to Viad common stockholders	[1]									$ 1.32	$ 2.59	$ 1.06
[1]	Diluted income per share amount cannot exceed basic income per share.

Income (Loss) Per Share - Narra

Income (Loss) Per Share - Narrative (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Stock Options
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Common stock shares effect would be anti-dilutive	4,000	26,000	47,000

Employee Stock Ownership Feat88

Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401Plan - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2004	Dec. 31, 1989
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
ESOP borrowing to purchase treasury shares				$ 40,000,000
Borrowings of Viad under its revolving credit agreement			$ 12,200,000
ESOP, Loan entered with Viad			12,400,000
Minimum quarterly principal payments			250,000
Reduction of stockholders' equity			$ 250,000
Expense recorded by Viad	$ 100,000	$ 1,300,000
Unallocated shares	0	4,361
Shares allocated		126,216

Employee Stock Ownership Feat89

Employee Stock Ownership Feature of 401Plan - Employee Stock Ownership Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Amounts paid by ESOP for:
Debt repayment	$ 44	$ 1,280
Interest		1
Amounts received from Viad as:
Contributions	$ 44	1,202
Dividends		$ 79

Preferred Stock Purchase Righ90

Preferred Stock Purchase Rights - Narrative (Details)	Jul. 02, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015shares
Equity [Abstract]
Preferred Stock, Authorized		5,000,000
Junior participating preferred Stock, Authorized		2,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding		0
Junior Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding		0
Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Conversion Ratio	0.25

Accumulated Other Comprehensi91

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Schedules of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning of Period	$ (394)	$ 20,017
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(34,181)	(18,334)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax	399	(2,077)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(33,782)	(20,411)
Ending of Period	(34,176)	(394)
Unrealized Gains on Investments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning of Period	471	429
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(55)	98
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax	(70)	(56)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(125)	42
Ending of Period	346	471
Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning of Period	12,415	30,847
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(35,672)	(18,432)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax	0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(35,672)	(18,432)
Ending of Period	(23,257)	12,415
Unrecognized Net Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Credit, Net
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning of Period	(13,280)	(11,259)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	1,546
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax	469	(2,021)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	2,015	(2,021)
Ending of Period	$ (11,265)	$ (13,280)

Accumulated Other Comprehensi92

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Unrealized gains on investments										$ (658)	$ (305)	$ (550)
Tax effect										(10,493)	(109)	(8,310)
Income from continuing operations		$ (796)	$ 7,393	$ 22,311	$ (1,908)	$ (7,255)	$ 30,755	$ 7,978	$ 9,312	27,442	41,178	$ 19,320
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Unrealized Gains on Investments
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Unrealized gains on investments										(112)	(90)
Tax effect										42	34
Income from continuing operations										(70)	(56)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Unrecognized Net Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Credit, Net
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Recognized net actuarial (gain) loss	[1]									1,180	(3,821)
Amortization of prior service credit	[1]									(552)	565
Tax effect										(159)	1,235
Income from continuing operations										$ 469	$ (2,021)
[1]	Amount included in pension expense. Refer to Note 18 – Pension and Postretirement Benefits.

Income Taxes - Schedule of Dome

Income Taxes - Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Income Before Income Tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Foreign	$ 35,571	$ 33,349	$ 25,010
United States	2,364	7,938	2,620
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	$ 37,935	$ 41,287	$ 27,630

Income Taxes - Schedule of Inco

Income Taxes - Schedule of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current:
Federal	$ (876)		$ (3,308)
State	1,558	$ 16	(286)
Foreign	9,342	9,824	9,606
Total current	10,024	9,840	6,012
Deferred:
Federal	1,854	(9,486)	2,007
State	(164)	(125)	651
Foreign	(1,221)	(120)	(360)
Total deferred	469	(9,731)	2,298
Income tax expense	$ 10,493	$ 109	$ 8,310

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract]
Computed income tax expense at statutory federal income tax rate of 35%	$ 13,277	$ 14,450	$ 9,670
State income taxes, net of federal provision	1,713	227	345
Foreign tax rate differentials	(1,181)	(1,262)	77
U.S. tax on foreign earnings (net of foreign tax credits)	(948)	(2,168)	(1,831)
Change in valuation allowance	(944)	(11,650)	(2,184)
Proceeds from life insurance		(133)	(196)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Amount	(1,557)	(1,401)	1,664
Other, net	133	2,046	765
Income tax expense	$ 10,493	$ 109	$ 8,310
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Computed income tax expense at statutory federal income tax rate of 35%, tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes, net of federal provision, tax rate	4.50%	0.50%	1.20%
Foreign tax differentials rate	(3.10%)	(3.10%)	0.30%
U.S. tax on foreign earnings rate	(2.50%)	(5.30%)	(6.60%)
Change in valuation allowance, tax rate	(2.50%)	(28.20%)	(7.90%)
Proceeds from life insurance rate		(0.30%)	(0.70%)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Percent	(4.10%)	(3.40%)	6.00%
Other, net, tax rate	0.40%	5.00%	2.80%
Income tax expense	27.70%	0.20%	30.10%

Income Taxes - Reconciliation96

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Income Tax Expense (Parenthetical) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Computed income tax expense at statutory federal income tax rate of 35%, tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%

Income Taxes - Schedule of Defe

Income Taxes - Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred tax assets:
Tax credit carryforwards	$ 19,529	$ 21,783
Pension, compensation, and other employee benefits	23,212	23,501
Provisions for losses	11,119	12,127
Net operating loss carryforward	4,310	4,886
State income taxes	2,944	2,979
Other deferred income tax assets	3,456	3,927
Total deferred tax assets	64,570	69,203
Valuation allowance	(2,837)	(3,781)
Foreign deferred tax assets included above	(2,460)	(1,536)
Net deferred tax assets	59,273	63,886
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(3,510)	(5,856)
Deferred tax related to life insurance	(5,316)	(4,962)
Goodwill and other intangible assets	(4,038)	(2,705)
Other deferred income tax liabilities	(1,115)	(1,452)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(13,979)	(14,975)
Foreign deferred tax liabilities included above	3,471	3,671
United States net deferred tax assets	$ 48,765	$ 52,582

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Deferred income taxes	$ 50,137,000	$ 52,582,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	64,570,000	69,203,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards	19,529,000	21,783,000
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward Expire On 2020	1,000,000
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward Expire On 2021	6,000,000
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward Expire On 2022	300,000
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward Expire On 2023	1,900,000
Deferred Tax, Operating Loss Carryforwards	4,310,000	4,886,000
Valuation Allowance	2,837,000	3,781,000
Unrecognized Tax Liability For Undistributed Foreign Earnings	3,400,000
Liability for uncertain tax positions	1,500,000	2,400,000
Increase (Decrease) in Uncertain Tax Liability	(1,000,000)
Accrued Interest And Penalties For Continued Operations	0
Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	300,000
Accrued Income Taxes Payable	600,000	600,000
Accrued Interest and Penalties for Discontinued Operations	500,000	500,000
State and Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	56,000,000	75,800,000
Deferred Tax, Operating Loss Carryforwards	4,300,000	4,900,000
Valuation Allowance	2,800,000	3,800,000
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance Operating Loss Carryforwards Change In Amount	(800,000)
Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance Operating Loss Carryforwards Change In Amount	(200,000)
Foreign Income Tax Credit | Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards	$ 9,200,000
Tax credit carryforward expiration period	10 years
Alternative Minimum Tax Credit Carryforward
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward	$ 10,300,000
Adjustments for New Accounting Principle, Early Adoption
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Deferred income taxes		$ 22,900,000

Income Taxes - Schedule of Unre

Income Taxes - Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning Balance	$ 1,919	$ 1,372	$ 636
Additions for tax positions taken in prior years	43	1,019	736
Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years	(666)
Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes	(353)	(472)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance	943	1,919	1,372
Continuing Operations
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning Balance	1,283	736	0
Additions for tax positions taken in prior years	43	1,019	736
Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years	(666)
Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes	(353)	(472)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance	307	1,283	736
Discontinued Operations
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning Balance	636	636	636
Additions for tax positions taken in prior years	0	0	0
Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years	0
Reductions for lapse of applicable statutes	0	0
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance	$ 636	$ 636	$ 636

Pension and Postretirement B100

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income of Viad's postretirement benefit plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Plans
Net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	$ 101	$ 87	$ 66
Interest cost	1,018	1,079	1,030
Expected return on plan assets	(380)	(436)	(400)
Recognized net actuarial loss	492	407	583
Net periodic benefit cost	1,231	1,137	1,279
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Net actuarial loss (gain)	(963)	3,418	(2,565)
Reversal of amortization item:
Net actuarial loss	(492)	(407)	(583)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,455)	3,011	(3,148)
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	(224)	4,148	(1,869)
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	152	129	156
Interest cost	619	640	663
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service credit	(552)	(593)	(902)
Recognized net actuarial loss	528	166	518
Net periodic benefit cost	747	342	435
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Net actuarial loss (gain)	(1,248)	1,045	(1,496)
Prior service credit	3	(1,283)	(40)
Reversal of amortization item:
Net actuarial loss	(528)	(166)	(518)
Prior service credit	552	593	902
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,221)	189	(1,152)
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	(474)	531	(717)
Foreign Pension Plans
Net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	503	413	534
Interest cost	505	631	702
Expected return on plan assets	(583)	(640)	(698)
Recognized net actuarial loss	160	145	248
Net periodic benefit cost	585	549	786
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Net actuarial loss (gain)	182	361	(1,214)
Reversal of amortization of net actuarial loss	(160)	145	(248)
Reversal of amortization item:
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	22	506	(1,462)
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	$ 607	$ 1,055	$ (676)

Pension and Postretirement B101

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Summary of funded status of the plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Funded Plans
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$ 16,012	$ 13,435
Service cost	0	0
Interest cost	616	644
Recognized net actuarial loss	(1,013)	2,700
Plan amendments	0	0
Benefits paid	(709)	(767)
Benefit obligation at end of year	14,906	16,012	$ 13,435
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	11,198	10,872
Actual return on plan assets	(742)	364
Company contributions	732	729
Benefits paid	(709)	(767)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	10,479	11,198	10,872
Funded status at end of year	(4,427)	(4,814)
Unfunded Pension Plans
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	11,127	10,536
Service cost	101	87
Interest cost	402	435
Recognized net actuarial loss	(1,072)	649
Plan amendments	0	0
Benefits paid	(509)	(580)
Benefit obligation at end of year	10,049	11,127	10,536
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Company contributions	509	580
Benefits paid	(509)	(580)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0	0
Funded status at end of year	(10,049)	(11,127)
Postretirement Benefit Plans
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	16,235	16,919
Service cost	152	129
Interest cost	619	640
Recognized net actuarial loss	(1,248)	1,011
Plan amendments	3	(1,283)
Benefits paid	(1,188)	(1,181)
Benefit obligation at end of year	14,573	16,235	16,919
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0	520
Actual return on plan assets		(34)
Company contributions	1,188	695
Benefits paid	(1,188)	(1,181)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0	520
Funded status at end of year	(14,573)	(16,235)
Foreign Pension Plans
Change in benefit obligation:
Service cost	503	413	534
Interest cost	505	631	702
Recognized net actuarial loss	160	145	248
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	11,747
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	9,705	11,747
Foreign Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	9,744	12,016	11,460
Service cost	503	413
Interest cost	415	507
Recognized net actuarial loss	(176)	1,042
Benefits paid	(1,115)	(344)
Benefit obligation at end of year		9,744	12,016
Translation adjustment	(1,899)	(1,062)
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	9,705	11,747	11,560
Actual return on plan assets	377	983
Company contributions	566	604
Benefits paid	(1,115)	(344)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		9,705	11,747
Translation adjustment	(1,870)	(1,056)
Funded status at end of year		(39)	(269)
Foreign Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	2,470	2,756	2,911
Service cost	0	0
Interest cost	89	124
Recognized net actuarial loss	178	234
Benefits paid	(179)	(211)
Benefit obligation at end of year		2,470	2,756
Translation adjustment	(374)	(302)
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0	0	0
Actual return on plan assets		0
Company contributions	179	211
Benefits paid	$ (179)	(211)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year		0	0
Translation adjustment		0
Funded status at end of year		$ (2,470)	$ (2,756)

Pension and Postretirement B102

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Net amount recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Funded Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	$ 4,427	$ 4,814
Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	10,049	11,127
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	14,573	16,235
Foreign Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	39	318
Foreign Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	2,470	2,756
Other current liabilities | Funded Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	0	0
Other current liabilities | Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	645	635
Other current liabilities | US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	1,122	1,094
Other current liabilities | Foreign Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	162	94
Non Current Liabilities | Funded Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	4,427	4,814
Non Current Liabilities | Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	9,404	10,492
Non Current Liabilities | US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	13,451	15,141
Non Current Liabilities | Foreign Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	39	318
Non Current Liabilities | Foreign Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Net amounts recognized in Viad's consolidated balance sheets under the caption Pension and postretirement benefits
Net amount recognized	$ 2,308	$ 2,662

Pension and Postretirement B103

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Total	$ 11,265	$ 13,476
Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax	9,202	9,442
Prior service credit	0	0
Subtotal	9,202	9,442
Less tax effect	(3,490)	(3,581)
Total	5,712	5,861
Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax	2,806	4,020
Prior service credit	0	0
Subtotal	2,806	4,020
Less tax effect	(1,064)	(1,525)
Total	1,742	2,495
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax	3,795	5,571
Prior service credit	(2,173)	(2,729)
Subtotal	1,622	2,842
Less tax effect	(615)	(1,078)
Total	1,007	1,764
US Postretirement and Pension Plan
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax	15,803	19,033
Prior service credit	(2,173)	(2,729)
Subtotal	13,630	16,304
Less tax effect	(5,169)	(6,184)
Total	$ 8,461	$ 10,120

Pension and Postretirement B104

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumed health care cost trend rate	7.00%	7.50%
Decrease in assumed health care cost trend rate	4.50%	5.00%
Effect of one percentage point increase on accumulated post retirement benefit obligation	$ 1,500
Effect of one percentage point increase in assumed health care cost trend rate on total service and interest cost components	100
Effect of one percentage point decrease in assumed health care cost trend rate on accumulated post retirement benefit obligation	1,300
Effect of one percentage point decrease in assumed health care cost trend rate on total service and interest cost components	$ 100
Maximum percentage of funding status of plans in red zone	65.00%
Maximum percentage of funding status of plans in yellow zone	80.00%
Maximum percentage of funding status of plans in green zone	80.00%
401(k) plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of employer matching contribution with employee gross pay	100.00%
Percentage of employer matching contribution match with 100 percent	3.00%
Percentage of employer matching contribution	50.00%
Percentage of employer matching contribution match with 50 percent	2.00%
Expense associated with other employee benefit plans	$ 3,700	$ 3,300	$ 1,300
US Postretirement and Pension Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated net actuarial loss for pension plans that is expected to be amortized	400
Estimated prior service credit for postretirement benefit plans	500
US Postretirement and Pension Plan | Unfunded Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated net actuarial loss for pension plans that is expected to be amortized	100
US Postretirement and Pension Plan | Funded Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated net actuarial loss for pension plans that is expected to be amortized	300
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated net actuarial loss for pension plans that is expected to be amortized	(160)	145	(248)
Net actuarial losses for the foreign funded plans (before tax)	(3,300)	(4,000)
Net actuarial losses for the foreign funded plans (after tax)	(2,500)	(3,100)
Net actuarial losses for the foreign unfunded plans (before tax)	(400)	(400)
Net actuarial losses for the foreign unfunded plans (after tax)	(300)	(200)
Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount expected to contribute in unfunded pension plans	800
Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount expected to contribute in funded pension plans	900
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated prior service credit for postretirement benefit plans	$ 552	593	$ 902
Amount expected to contribute in postretirement benefit plans		$ 1,100

Pension and Postretirement B105

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Fair value of the plans' assets by asset class (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	$ 10,479	$ 11,198
Pension Plans | Aggregate fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	5,453	6,534
Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	4,459	3,855
Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	357	552
Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	210	257
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	9,705	11,747
Foreign Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	1,012	1,236
Foreign Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	425	451
Foreign Pension Plans | Canadian Fixed Income Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	4,372	5,367
Foreign Pension Plans | International equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	3,896	4,693
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	10,269	10,941
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Pension Plans | Aggregate fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	5,453	6,534
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	4,459	3,855
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	357	552
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	9,330	11,327
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Foreign Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	1,012	1,236
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Foreign Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	425	451
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Foreign Pension Plans | Canadian Fixed Income Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	4,372	5,367
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) | Foreign Pension Plans | International equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	3,521	4,273
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	210	257
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Pension Plans | Aggregate fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	210	257
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	375	420
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign Pension Plans | Canadian Fixed Income Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign Pension Plans | International equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	375	420
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | Aggregate fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign Pension Plans | U.S. equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign Pension Plans | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign Pension Plans | Canadian Fixed Income Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	0	$ 0
Significant Unobserved Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign Pension Plans | International equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value measurement domestic pension plans	$ 0

Pension and Postretirement B106

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Payments and receipts reflecting expected future service (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Expected future service expected to be paid
2,016	$ 1,146
2,017	1,157
2,018	1,153
2,019	1,123
2,020	1,112
2021-2025	5,021
Funded Plans
Expected future service expected to be paid
2,016	834
2,017	875
2,018	895
2,019	922
2,020	988
2021-2025	4,879
Funded Plans | Foreign Pension Plans
Expected future service expected to be paid
2,016	311
2,017	383
2,018	395
2,019	449
2,020	451
2021-2025	2,716
Unfunded Pension Plans
Expected future service expected to be paid
2,016	659
2,017	697
2,018	722
2,019	735
2,020	737
2021-2025	3,447
Unfunded Pension Plans | Foreign Pension Plans
Expected future service expected to be paid
2,016	166
2,017	166
2,018	166
2,019	165
2,020	165
2021-2025	$ 816

Pension and Postretirement B107

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Domestic Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation	$ 14,906	$ 16,012
Accumulated benefit obligation	14,906	16,012
Fair value of plan assets	10,479	11,200
Domestic Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation	10,049		$ 11,127
Accumulated benefit obligation	9,934		11,014
Fair value of plan assets	0		$ 0
Foreign Plans | Funded Plans
Accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation	9,744	12,016
Accumulated benefit obligation	9,186	11,268
Fair value of plan assets	9,705	11,747
Foreign Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation	2,470	2,756
Accumulated benefit obligation	2,470	2,656
Fair value of plan assets	$ 0	$ 0

Pension and Postretirement B108

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Plans | Funded Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	4.37%	4.01%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	3.97%	4.90%
Expected return on plan assets	3.33%	4.15%
Pension Plans | Unfunded Pension Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	4.25%	3.90%
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	3.90%	4.60%
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%
US Postretirement Benefit Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	4.30%	4.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	4.00%	4.65%
Expected return on plan assets	0.00%	0.00%
Foreign Pension Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	3.76%	3.85%
Rate of compensation increase	2.31%	3.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	3.86%	4.67%
Expected return on plan assets	4.51%	5.69%
Rate of compensation increase	2.31%	3.00%

Pension and Postretirement B109

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Multi-employer pension plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Multi-employer pension plans
Viad Contributions	$ 21,988	$ 23,152	$ 20,313
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	916,145,047
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 5,632	$ 6,369	5,524
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	May 31, 2015
Southern California Local 831—Employer Pension Fund
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	956,376,874
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 2,485	$ 2,481	2,244
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Aug. 31, 2017
Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Pension Fund
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	366,130,207
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Yellow	Yellow
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Viad Contributions	$ 1,887	$ 1,946	1,614
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	May 31, 2018
Electrical Contractors Assoc. Chicago Local Union 134, IBEW Joint Pension Trust of Chicago Plan 2
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	516,030,753
Plan No:	2
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 1,190	$ 1,081	957
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Jun. 3, 2017
IBEW Local Union No 357 Pension Plan A
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	886,023,284
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 1,150	$ 1,457	1,631
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Jun. 16, 2018
Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Plan
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	366,044,243
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red	Red
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Viad Contributions	$ 948	$ 1,018	836
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Jul. 31, 2015
Southern California IBEW-NECA Pension Fund
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	956,392,774
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Yellow	Yellow
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Viad Contributions	$ 835	$ 768	184
Surcharge Paid	No
National Electrical Benefit Fund
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	530,181,657
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 771	$ 167	193
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Jun. 18, 2018
Southwest Carpenters Pension Trust
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	956,042,875
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 750	$ 885	812
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Jun. 30, 2018
Sign Pictorial & Display Industry Pension Plan
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	946,278,490
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	No
Viad Contributions	$ 541	$ 439	367
Surcharge Paid	No
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Mar. 31, 2018
Machinery Movers Riggers & Mach Erect Local 136 Supplemental Retirement Plan(1),
Multi-employer pension plans
EIN	361,416,355
Plan No:	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red	Red
FIP/RP Status Pending/ Implemented	Implemented
Viad Contributions	$ 502	$ 993	430
Surcharge Paid	Yes
Collective bargaining agreements expiration date	Jun. 30, 2019
All other funds
Multi-employer pension plans
Viad Contributions	$ 3,869	3,491	2,032
Pension Plans
Multi-employer pension plans
Viad Contributions	20,560	21,095	16,824
Total contributions to other plans
Multi-employer pension plans
Viad Contributions	$ 1,428	$ 2,057	$ 3,489

Pension and Postretirement B110

Pension and Postretirement Benefits - Multi-employer pension plans (Parenthetical) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015PensionFund
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Percentage of excess employer contributions	5.00%
Aggregate number of funds	45

Restructuring Charges - Reconci

Restructuring Charges - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Liability Balances by Major Restructuring Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2012				$ 1,944				$ 5,698	$ 1,944	$ 5,698	$ 7,224
Restructuring charges (recoveries)	$ 1,414	$ 257	$ 1,069	216	$ (177)	$ 234	$ 1,369	211	2,956	1,637	3,793
Cash payments									(2,572)	(5,276)	(4,841)
Adjustment to liability									(52)	(115)	(478)
Balance at December 31, 2013	2,276				1,944				2,276	1,944	5,698
Marketing & Events Group | Severance & Employee Benefits
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2012				543				1,240	543	1,240	720
Restructuring charges (recoveries)									1,767	2,358	2,931
Cash payments									(1,514)	(3,055)	(2,411)
Adjustment to liability									(45)
Balance at December 31, 2013	751				543				751	543	1,240
Marketing & Events Group | Facilities
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2012				1,161				3,565	1,161	3,565	5,571
Restructuring charges (recoveries)									587	(828)	(315)
Cash payments									(457)	(1,376)	(1,691)
Adjustment to liability										(200)
Balance at December 31, 2013	1,291				1,161				1,291	1,161	3,565
Other Restructuring | Severance & Employee Benefits
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2012				$ 240				$ 893	240	893
Restructuring charges (recoveries)									602	107	1,869
Cash payments									(601)	(845)	(498)
Adjustment to liability									(7)	85	(478)
Balance at December 31, 2013	$ 234				$ 240				$ 234	$ 240	893
Other Restructuring | Facilities
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2012											933
Restructuring charges (recoveries)											(692)
Cash payments											$ (241)

Leases and Other - Narrative (D

Leases and Other - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Leases and Other (Textual) [Abstract]
Lease expiration period	40 years
Aggregate purchase obligation	$ 28.1

Leases and Other - Schedule of

Leases and Other - Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments and Related Sublease Rentals Receivable (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Future minimum rental payments and related sublease rentals receivable
Rental Payments, 2016	$ 20,962
Rental Payments, 2017	18,567
Rental Payments, 2018	16,437
Rental Payments, 2019	13,027
Rental Payments, 2020	11,413
Rental Payments, Thereafter	10,122
Rental Payments, Total	90,528
Receivable Under Subleases, 2016	1,526
Receivable Under Subleases, 2017	1,544
Receivable Under Subleases, 2018	1,490
Receivable Under Subleases, 2019	1,005
Receivable Under Subleases, 2020	509
Receivable Under Subleases, Thereafter	253
Receivable Under Subleases, Total	$ 6,327

Leases and Other - Net Rent Exp

Leases and Other - Net Rent Expense Under Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Net rent expense under operating leases
Minimum rentals	$ 41,564	$ 37,707	$ 34,201
Sublease rentals	(3,457)	(6,884)	(6,815)
Total rentals, net	$ 38,107	$ 30,823	$ 27,386

Litigation, Claims, Continge115

Litigation, Claims, Contingencies and Other - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)Agreement	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Environmental remediation liability	$ 4,500,000	$ 4,700,000
Maximum potential amount of future payments	$ 10,400,000
Guarantees relate to leased facilities expiry date	2021-03
Recourse provision to recover guarantees	$ 0
Bargaining agreements | Agreement	100
Percent of Viad's regular full-time employees are covered by collective-bargaining agreements	29.00%
Contribution to multi-employer pension plans	$ 21,988,000	23,152,000	$ 20,313,000
Self insurance reserve	20,500,000
Workers' compensation liability	13,400,000
Self insurance reserve for general and auto	7,100,000
Self insurance reserve on discontinued operations	4,200,000
Payments for self insurance	5,600,000	$ 4,800,000	$ 6,600,000
Self insurance reserve in which company is the primary obligor	6,000,000
Self insurance reserve in which company is the primary obligor for workers compensation	2,500,000
Self insurance reserve in which company is the primary obligor for general liability	3,500,000
Minimum
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
General range on claims	200,000
Maximum
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
General range on claims	$ 500,000

Segment Information - Reconcili

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Income Statement Items from Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue	$ 251,671	$ 255,946	$ 317,035	$ 264,396	$ 223,155	$ 299,802	$ 256,391	$ 285,641	$ 1,089,048	$ 1,064,987	$ 953,347
Segment operating income (loss)	(231)	12,960	33,234	(4,151)	(7,317)	29,311	9,892	11,111	44,864	45,518	35,156
Interest income									658	305	550
Interest expense									(4,535)	(2,015)	(1,234)
Restructuring (charges) recoveries									(2,956)	(1,637)	(3,793)
Impairment charges	$ (96)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ (884)	$ 0	(96)	(884)	(3,049)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes									37,935	41,287	27,630
Travel & Recreation Group
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Impairment charges									(96)
Operating Segments
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Segment operating income (loss)									54,584	59,866	41,911
Operating Segments | Marketing & Events Group
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue									976,878	944,468	844,904
Segment operating income (loss)									26,774	31,739	20,092
Restructuring (charges) recoveries									(541)	278	409
Impairment charges											(658)
Operating Segments | Travel & Recreation Group
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue									112,170	120,519	108,443
Segment operating income (loss)									27,810	28,127	21,819
Restructuring (charges) recoveries									(200)	41	(809)
Impairment charges									(96)		(2,097)
Operating Segments | Marketing & Events International Segment
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Restructuring (charges) recoveries									(1,813)	(1,808)	(2,362)
Impairment charges										(884)	(294)
Intersegment Eliminations | Marketing & Events Group
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue									(16,638)	(16,016)	(13,264)
Corporate
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Segment operating income (loss)									(9,720)	(14,348)	(6,755)
Restructuring (charges) recoveries									(402)	(148)	(1,031)
U.S. Segment
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue									726,436	718,538	637,482
U.S. Segment | Operating Segments | Marketing & Events Group
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue									720,882	710,835	628,856
Segment operating income (loss)									14,563	21,400	11,024
International Segment | Operating Segments | Marketing & Events Group
Reportable segments reconciliations:
Total revenue									272,634	249,649	229,312
Segment operating income (loss)									$ 12,211	$ 10,339	$ 9,068

Segment Information - Reconc117

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Assets from Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of assets from segment
Total Assets	$ 692,295	$ 714,943	$ 561,932
Total Depreciation and Amortization	35,231	30,792	27,967
Capital expenditures	29,839	29,389	36,119
Marketing & Events Group | U.S. Segment
Reconciliation of assets from segment
Total Assets	294,618	304,727	194,422
Total Depreciation and Amortization	18,658	16,066	14,906
Capital expenditures	8,066	14,515	8,278
Marketing & Events Group | International Segment
Reconciliation of assets from segment
Total Assets	115,494	116,842	81,058
Total Depreciation and Amortization	8,435	6,311	5,566
Capital expenditures	8,366	4,134	4,332
Travel & Recreation Group
Reconciliation of assets from segment
Total Assets	195,527	199,986	209,611
Total Depreciation and Amortization	7,974	8,232	7,319
Capital expenditures	13,107	10,740	23,108
Corporate and other
Reconciliation of assets from segment
Total Assets	86,656	93,388	76,841
Total Depreciation and Amortization	164	$ 183	176
Capital expenditures	$ 300		$ 401

Segment Information - Financial

Segment Information - Financial Information by Major Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenue:
Total revenue	$ 251,671	$ 255,946	$ 317,035	$ 264,396	$ 223,155	$ 299,802	$ 256,391	$ 285,641	$ 1,089,048	$ 1,064,987	$ 953,347
Long-lived assets:
Total long-lived assets	228,442				222,809				228,442	222,809	225,356
United States
Revenue:
Total revenue									726,436	718,538	637,482
Long-lived assets:
Total long-lived assets	141,051				130,401				141,051	130,401	132,315
EMEA
Revenue:
Total revenue									220,046	192,674	166,931
Long-lived assets:
Total long-lived assets	15,714				14,215				15,714	14,215	10,055
Canada
Revenue:
Total revenue									142,566	153,775	148,934
Long-lived assets:
Total long-lived assets	$ 71,677				$ 78,193				$ 71,677	$ 78,193	$ 82,986

Common Stock Repurchases - Narr

Common Stock Repurchases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Common Stock Repurchases (Textual) [Abstract]
Repurchased shares	141,462	448,436
Common stock purchased for treasury	$ 3.8	$ 10.6
Shares remain available for repurchase	440,540
Repurchased shares tax withholding	35,649	72,996	50,156
Share repurchased relating to tax withholding requirements	$ 1	$ 1.8	$ 1.3

Discontinued Operations - Narra

Discontinued Operations - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income (loss) from discontinued operations			$ (394)	$ 14,389	$ 2,366
Proceeds from possessory interest and personal property - discontinued operations			0	28,000	0
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment			1,542	1,109	464
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment			690	958	265
Goodwill, Impairment Loss					2,097
Other Asset Impairment Charges			$ 96	884	952
Amount of Adjustment to Prior Period Gain (Loss) on Disposal				1,100	1,100
Glacier Park
Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income (loss) from discontinued operations				$ 13,295	1,241
Proceeds from possessory interest and personal property - discontinued operations		$ 25,000
Gain on Possessory Interest, before Tax		21,500
Gain on Possessory Interest, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Only		13,500
Gain on Possessory Interest, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		$ 2,700
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment	$ 3,000
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment	$ 700
Impairment Charge, Including Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations					4,500
Goodwill, Impairment Loss					2,100
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Impairment Charges					$ 2,364

Discontinued Operations - Sched

Discontinued Operations - Schedule of Disconnected Operations, Income Statement (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income from discontinued operations	$ (394)	$ 14,389	$ 2,366
Income from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest		(2,825)	(248)
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Viad	$ (394)	11,564	2,118
Glacier Park
Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Total revenue			19,445
Costs and expenses		(93)	(15,462)
Impairment charges			(2,364)
Restructuring charges			(98)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes		(93)	1,521
Income tax benefit (expense)		45	(280)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax		(48)	1,241
Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax		13,343
Income from discontinued operations		13,295	1,241
Income from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interest		(2,825)	(248)
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Viad		$ 10,470	$ 993

Discontinued Operations - Recon

Discontinued Operations - Reconciliation of Noncontrolling Interest, Income Statement (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Amounts Attributable To Reporting Entity Disclosures [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations	$ 442	$ 388	$ (117)
Income from discontinued operations		2,825	248
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	$ 442	$ 3,213	$ 131

Condensed Consolidated Quart123

Condensed Consolidated Quarterly Results (Unaudited) - Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Revenue:	$ 251,671	$ 255,946	$ 317,035	$ 264,396	$ 223,155	$ 299,802	$ 256,391	$ 285,641	$ 1,089,048	$ 1,064,987	$ 953,347
Operating income (loss):
Ongoing operations	4,852	14,571	36,286	(1,125)	(644)	33,013	14,136	13,361
Corporate activities	(3,573)	(1,354)	(1,983)	(2,810)	(6,850)	(3,468)	(1,991)	(2,039)
Restructuring (charges) recoveries	(1,414)	(257)	(1,069)	(216)	177	(234)	(1,369)	(211)	(2,956)	(1,637)	(3,793)
Impairment charges	(96)	0	0	0	0	0	(884)	0	(96)	(884)	(3,049)
Operating income (loss)	(231)	12,960	33,234	(4,151)	(7,317)	29,311	9,892	11,111	44,864	45,518	35,156
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Viad	(796)	7,393	22,311	(1,908)	(7,255)	30,755	7,978	9,312	27,442	41,178	19,320
Net income (loss) attributable to Viad	$ (957)	$ 7,230	$ 22,389	$ (2,056)	$ (5,889)	$ 29,620	$ 6,742	$ 21,882	$ 26,606	$ 52,354	$ 21,555
Basic and Diluted income (loss) per common share:
Continuing operations attributable to Viad	$ (0.04)	$ 0.37	$ 1.11	$ (0.10)	$ (0.37)	$ 1.53	$ 0.39	$ 0.46
Net income (loss) attributable to Viad common stockholders	$ (0.05)	$ 0.36	$ 1.12	$ (0.10)	$ (0.30)	$ 1.48	$ 0.33	$ 1.08
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance, Change in Amount						$ 10,100

Subsequent Event (Details)

Subsequent Event (Details) CAD in Millions, $ in Millions	Feb. 24, 2016USD ($)	Jan. 04, 2016USD ($)Boat	Jan. 04, 2016CADBoat	Dec. 22, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio						167.00%
Fixed charge coverage ratio						218.00%
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Annual share repurchase limit					$ 20
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Maximum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio				300.00%
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement | Minimum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Fixed charge coverage ratio				175.00%
Credit Agreement Amendment
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio						350.00%
Fixed charge coverage ratio						175.00%
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Minimum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Fixed charge coverage ratio	175.00%
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Acquisitions In Same Or Related Lines Of Business | Maximum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio	300.00%
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Unlimited Stock Dividends Distributions And Repurchases | Maximum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio	250.00%
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Limited Stock Dividends Distributions And Repurchases
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Annual share repurchase limit	$ 20
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Limited Stock Dividends Distributions And Repurchases | Minimum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio	250.00%
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Maintain Leverage Ratio | Maximum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio	350.00%
Subsequent Event | Credit Agreement Amendment | Unlimited Unsecured Indebtedness | Maximum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Leverage ratio	300.00%
Subsequent Event | Maligne Tours Ltd
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Business acquisition date		Jan. 4, 2016	Jan. 4, 2016
Number of boats | Boat		7	7
Cash		$ 15	CAD 20.9

Schedule II - Valuation And 125

Schedule II - Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Allowances for doubtful accounts
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of Year	$ 1,258	$ 877	$ 1,150
Additions Charged to Expense	955	821	313
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	542	0	0
Write Offs	(1,162)	(440)	(586)
Deductions Credited to Other Accounts	0	0	0
Balance at end of Year	1,593	1,258	877
Deferred tax valuation allowance
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of Year	3,295	12,393	14,576
Additions Charged to Expense	0	95	1,917
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	402	2,589	0
Write Offs	(860)	(11,782)	(4,100)
Deductions Credited to Other Accounts	0	0	0
Balance at end of Year	$ 2,837	$ 3,295	$ 12,393