| Document and Entity Information | Feb. 24, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | TANGER FACTORY OUTLET CENTERS, INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000899715 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 24, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | NC |
| Entity File Number | 001-11986 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 56-1815473 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3200 Northline Avenue |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 360 |
| Entity Address, Address Line Three | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Greensboro |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 27408 |
| City Area Code | (336) |
| Local Phone Number | 292-3010 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Shares, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | SKT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
