Financing Receivable, Net [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Casino Queen Casino Queen [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Casino Queen located in East St. Louis, Illinois. CQ Holding Company Inc. CQ Holding Company Inc. [Member] CQ Holding Company Inc. [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Unsecured Debt Unsecured Debt [Member] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items] Payments to acquire real estate Payments to Acquire Real Estate Lessor leasing arrangements, operating leases, term of contract Lessor, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Lessor leasing arrangements operating leases number of renewal options Lessor Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases Number of Renewal Options Represents the number of lease renewal options of the lessor's leasing arrangement. Lessor leasing arrangements, operating lease, renewal term Lessor, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Debt Instrument face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt instrument term Debt Instrument, Term Stated interest rate percentage on debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Interest income, paid-in-kind Interest Income, Paid-in-kind Interest income, paid-in-kind. As a noncash item, it is subtracted from net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Loan receivable Loans Receivable, Net Asset Impairment Charge, Paid-In-Kind Interest, Loan Receivable Asset Impairment Charge, Paid-In-Kind Interest, Loan Receivable Asset Impairment Charge, Paid-In-Kind Interest, Loan Receivable Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Dividends [Table] Schedule of Dividends [Table] A table or schedule providing information pertaining to dividends of the reporting entity. Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Domain] Dividends [Domain] Qualified dividends Qualified Dividends [Member] Qualified Dividends [Member] Non-qualified dividends Non-qualified Dividends [Member] Non-qualified Dividends [Member] Capital gains Capital Gains [Member] Capital Gains [Member] Non-taxable return of capital Non-taxable Return of Capital [Member] Non-taxable Return of Capital [Member] Dividends Dividends [Line Items] Common stock, dividends paid (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Common stock, dividends, classification of distribution as a percent Common Stock, Dividends, Percent of Cash Paid Common Stock, Dividends, Percent of Cash Paid Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] U.S. federal statutory income tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount State and local income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Federal tax rate change Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount REIT conversion benefit Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, REIT Conversion Benefit Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to REIT conversion benefit. Goodwill impairment charges Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Amount Permanent differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Permanent Differences, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Permanent Differences, Amount Other miscellaneous items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Total provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends [Abstract] Common stock, dividends declared (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Dividend Amount Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Table] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Table] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Master Lease Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Master Lease [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Master Lease [Member] Lessor leasing arrangements, term of contract including all reasonably assured renewal periods Lessor leasing arrangements, term of contract including all reasonably assured renewal periods Term of the lessor's leasing arrangement, including all reasonably assured renewal periods in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Minimum lease payments receivable Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases, Minimum Payments to be Received Unguaranteed residual value Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases, Unguaranteed Residual Values of Leased Property Gross investment in direct financing lease Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases, Gross Investment in Direct Financing Lease The gross investment in direct financing leases as of the balance sheet date consisting of: (a) minimum lease payments due on direct financing leases, (b) unguaranteed residual value, and (c) any unamortized initial direct costs. Less: unearned income Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases, Deferred Income Investment in direct financing lease, net Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases Accounting Policies [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets [Policy Text Block] Describes the entity's accounting policy for prepaid expenses and other assets. Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Real Estate Investments Real Estate Investments [Policy Text Block] Accounting policy for the real estate investments held by the REIT. [Policy Text Block] Land Rights Land Rights [Policy Text Block] Land Rights [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Used in Operations Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Mortgage and Other Loans Receivable Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment in Direct Financing Leases Loans and Leases Receivable, Lease Financing, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Gaming Taxes Gaming Taxes [Policy Text Block] Gaming Taxes Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Statements of Cash Flows Statement of Cash Flows Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block] Ground Leases, Net [Abstract] Schedule of Land Rights, Net Schedule of Land Rights, Net [Table Text Block] Schedule of Land Rights, Net [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] Investment maturity date for cash equivalent classification Investment Maturity for Cash Equivalent Classification Investment Maturity for Cash Equivalent Classification Business Combinations [Abstract] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. [Member] Consideration Business Acquisition [Line Items] Asset acquisition, consideration transferred, cash Asset acquisition, consideration transferred, cash Amount of cash consideration transferred to the acquiree from the acquirer for the acquisition-date fair value of assets acquired. Equity raised to partially finance the original Pinnacle transaction Asset acquisition, consideration transferred, equity interests issued or issuable. Asset acquisition, equity interests of the acquirer, including instruments or interests issued or issuable in consideration for the asset acquisition. New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New accounting pronouncement's cumulative adjustment to retained earnings Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Lease liability Operating Lease, Liability Gaming Taxes Gaming and Admission Taxes [Abstract] Gaming Taxes Gaming Taxes Gaming Taxes Reduction in deferred tax assets Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Provisional Deferred Tax Asset (Liability) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Provisional Deferred Tax Asset (Liability) Supplementary Condensed Consolidating Financial Information of Parent Guarantor and Subsidiary Issuers Summary of financial information for GLPI as the parent guarantor, for GLP Capital, L.P. and GLP Financing II, Inc. as the subsidiary issuers and the other subsidiary non-issuers Condensed Financial Statements [Table Text Block] Real Estate [Abstract] Schedule of Real Estate Investments, Net Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table Text Block] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] U.S. federal statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State and local income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Federal tax rate change Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent REIT conversion benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation REIT Conversion Benefit Percentage of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to REIT conversion benefit. Goodwill impairment charges Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Percent Effective income tax rate reconciliation, effective income tax rate, percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition [Text Block] Revenue Recognition [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] GLP Capital GLP Capital L P [Member] Represents information pertaining to GLP Capital, L.P. TRS Properties TRS Properties [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Company's taxable REIT subsidiary operations, which are also referred as the TRS Properties. Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Eliminations Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segment information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total revenues Revenues Income (loss) from operations Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense Interest Expense Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Depreciation Depreciation Capital project expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Capital maintenance expenditures Payments for Capital Improvements Total assets Assets Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Performance-based restricted stock awards Performance Shares [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of Performance-Based Award Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted Released (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Non Option Equity Instruments Released Number of non-option equity instruments released by participants. Canceled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Forfeitures Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares) Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Released (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Canceled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share) Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] Summarized Quarterly Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Schedule of future minimum lease payments receivable from operating leases Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block] Schedule of the components of gaming, food, beverage and other revenue Schedule of Components of TRS Properties Segment Revenue [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of revenues generated by casino operations, also including revenues from ancillary operations such as the sale of food and beverage at the casino properties. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Lease Arrangement, Renewal [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Renewal [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Renewal [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Renewal [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Renewal [Domain] [Domain] for Lease Arrangement, Renewal [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Tranche One Lease Arrangement, Tranche One [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche One [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche Two Lease Arrangement, Tranche Two [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche Two [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche Three Lease Arrangement, Tranche Three [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche Three [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche Four Lease Arrangement, Tranche Four [Member] Lease Arrangement, Tranche Four [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Boyd Gaming Corporation Master Lease Amended Pinnacle Master Lease [Member] Amended Pinnacle Master Lease Trop Casino Greenville Trop Casino Greenville, MS [Member] Trop Casino Greenville, MS Tropicana Evansville Tropicana Evansville, IN [Member] Tropicana Evansville, IN Boomtown Biloxi Boomtown Biloxi MS [Member] Represents information pertaining to Boomtown Biloxi located at Biloxi, MS. Boomtown Biloxi MS, Under First of Two Ground Lease Members Boomtown Biloxi MS, Under First of Two Ground Lease Members [Member] Boomtown Biloxi MS, Under First of Two Ground Lease Members Boomtown Biloxi MS, Under Second of Two Ground Lease Members Boomtown Biloxi MS, Under Second of Two Ground Lease Members [Member] Boomtown Biloxi MS, Under Second of Two Ground Lease Members Hollywood Casino Tunica Hollywood Casino Tunica MS [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Tunica, MS. Hollywood Casino Bangor Hollywood Casino Bangor ME [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Bangor, ME. Argosy Casino Alton Argosy Casino Alton IL [Member] Represents information pertaining to Argosy Casino located at Alton, IL. Hollywood Casino Aurora Hollywood Casino Aurora IL [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Aurora, IL. Tropicana Entertainment Tropicana Entertainment [Member] Tropicana Entertainment [Member] Eldorado Master Lease Eldorado Master Lease [Member] Eldorado Master Lease [Member] Penn National Gaming Inc. Master Lease Penn National Gaming Inc. Master Lease [Member] Penn National Gaming Inc. Master Lease Resorts Casino Tunica Resorts Casino Tunica, MS [Member] Resorts Casino Tunica, MS [Member] 1st Jackpot Casino 1st Jackpot Casino, MS [Member] 1st Jackpot Casino, MS 1st Jackpot Casino, MS, Under First of Two Ground Leases 1st Jackpot Casino, MS, Under First of Two Ground Leases [Member] 1st Jackpot Casino, MS, Under First of Two Ground Leases [Member] 1st Jackpot Casino, MS, Under Second of Two Ground Leases 1st Jackpot Casino, MS, Under Second of Two Ground Leases [Member] 1st Jackpot Casino, MS, Under Second of Two Ground Leases [Member] Boyd Gaming Corporation Master Lease Boyd Gaming Corporation Master Lease [Member] Boyd Gaming Corporation Master Lease Belterra Casino Resort Belterra Casino Resort IN [Member] Belterra Casino Resort IN [Member] Ameristar East Chicago Ameristar East Chicago IN [Member] Ameristar East Chicago IN [Member] River City Casino & Hotel River City Hotel and Casino MO [Member] River City Hotel and Casino MO [Member] L'Auberge Lake Charles L'Auberge Lake Charles LA [Member] L'Auberge Lakes Charles LA [Member] Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under First of Three Ground Lease Members Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under First of Three Ground Lease Members [Member] Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under First of Three Ground Lease Members Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under Second of Three Ground Lease Members Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under Second of Three Ground Lease Members [Member] Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under Second of Three Ground Lease Members Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under Third of Three Ground Lease Members Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under Third of Three Ground Lease Members [Member] Trop Casino Greenville, MS, Under Third of Three Ground Lease Members Belle of Baton Rouge Belle of Baton Rouge, LA [Member] Belle of Baton Rouge, LA [Member] Belle of Baton Rouge, LA, Under First of Two Ground Lease Members Belle of Baton Rouge, LA, Under First of Two Ground Lease Members [Member] Belle of Baton Rouge, LA, Under First of Two Ground Lease Members [Member] Belle of Baton Rouge, LA, Under Second of Two Ground Lease Members Belle of Baton Rouge, LA, Under Second of Two Ground Lease Members [Member] Belle of Baton Rouge, LA, Under Second of Two Ground Lease Members Subsidiary of Penn National Gaming Inc. Subsidiary of Penn National Gaming Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to subsidiary of Penn National Gaming, Inc. Subsidiary of Eldorado Resorts, Inc. Subsidiary of Eldorado Resorts, Inc. [Member] Subsidiary of Eldorado Resorts, Inc. [Member] Subsidiary of Boyd Gaming Corporation Subsidiary of Boyd Gaming Corporation [Member] Subsidiary of Boyd Gaming Corporation Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Lessee leasing arrangements operating leases, number of ground leases Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Number of Ground Leases Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Number of Ground Leases Lessee, term of contract Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Lease agreement period after which annual lease rental will be increased at specified percentage Lessee, Lease Agreement, Period after which Annual Lease Rental will be Increased at Specified Percentage Represents the period after which the annual rental payment will be increased at the specified percentage under the provisions of the lease agreement. Lease agreement percentage increase in annual lease rental after specified period Lessee, Lease Agreement Percentage Increase in Annual Lease Rental after Specified Period Represents the percentage increase in the annual rental payment after the specified period under the provisions of the lease agreement. Lessee, renewal term Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Number of renewal options Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases Number of Renewal Options Represents the number of lease renewal options of the lessee's leasing arrangement. Lease agreement percentage of gross revenue for determination of annual revenue sharing provision Lessee, Lease Agreement, Percentage of Gross Revenue for Determination of Annual Revenue Sharing Provision Represents the percentage of gross revenues for determination of annual revenue-sharing provision under the lease agreement. Operating leases, frequency base rent is adjusted Lessee, Operating leases, frequency base rent is adjusted Operating leases, frequency base rent is adjusted Number of real estate properties Number of Real Estate Properties Lessee leasing arrangements operating leases, percentage of rent paid based upon annual gross receipts Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Percentage Of Rent Paid Based Upon Annual Gross Receipts Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Percentage Of Rent Paid Based Upon Annual Gross Receipts Lessee leasing arrangements operating leases, percentage of minimum annual increase based upon the CPI Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Percentage Of Minimum Annual Increase Based Upon The CPI Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Percentage Of Minimum Annual Increase Based Upon The CPI Percentage of gaming revenues for determination of annual variable rent (up to) Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Percentage of Annual Variable Portion Based Upon Net Gaming Revenues Lessee Leasing Arrangements Operating Leases, Percentage of Annual Variable Portion of Rent Based Upon Net Gaming Revenues Percentage of gross revenue for determination of annual variable rent Lessee, Lease Agreement, Percentage of Gross Revenue for Determination of Annual Variable Rent Represents the percentage of gross revenues for determination of annual variable rent provision under the lease agreement. Operating leases, revenue threshold for paying variable rent Lessee, Operating leases, revenue threshold for paying variable rent Represent the dollar threshold for which gross revenues must exceed in order for the tenant to variable rent. Operating leases, rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Additional Cash Flow Elements and Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions Schedule of Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property and Equipment Used in Operations, Net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Land Rights Land Rights [Text Block] Land Rights [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Repayments of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Abstract] SEC Schedule IV, Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Disclosure SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Building and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Plainridge Park Casino Plainridge Park Casino [Member] Plainridge Park Casino Tunica Properties Tunica Properties [Member] Tunica Properties [Member] The Meadows Racetrack and Casino The Meadows Racetrack and Casino [Member] The Meadows Racetrack and Casino [Member] Amended Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Master Lease Amended Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Master Lease [Member] Amended Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Master Lease [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Term One Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Term One [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Term One [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease For First Three Terms Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease For First Three Terms [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease For First Three Terms [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Term Four Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Term Four [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease Term Four [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease For Fourth Term Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease For Fourth Term [Member] Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Meadows Lease For Fourth Term [Member] Rental income Operating Leases Income Statement Lease Revenue Prior to Taxes Paid by Tenant Represents the total amount of revenue recognized for the period from operating leases, including minimum lease revenue, contingent revenue, percentage revenue and sublease revenue prior to the real estate taxes paid by the tenant. Additional lease revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Additional Lease Revenue, Prior To Taxes Paid By Tenant Operating Leases, Income Statement, Additional Lease Revenue, Prior To Taxes Paid By Tenant Real estate investments, net Real Estate Investment Property, Net Conversion of share of acquiree to share of acquirer Asset Acquisition, Conversion Ratio of Share of Acquiree to Share of Acquirer Asset Acquisition, Conversion Ratio of Share of Acquiree to Share of Acquirer Stock issued as consideration (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions Debt of acquiree paid by acquirer at acquisition date Debt of Acquiree paid by Acquirer at Acquisition Date Debt of Acquiree paid by Acquirer at Acquisition Date Payments for seller's transaction fees by acquirer related to real estate acquisitions Payments for Seller's Transaction Fees by Acquirer Related to Real Estate Acquisitions The cash outflow from transaction fees paid by the acquirer of the assets on behalf of the seller and related to acquisition of a piece of land, anything permanently fixed to it, including buildings, structures on it and so forth; includes real estate intended to generate income for the owner; excludes real estate acquired for use by the owner. These transaction fees are included in purchase price. Payments for transaction fees related to real estate acquisitions Payments for Transaction Fees Related to Real Estate Acquisitions The cash outflow from transaction fees related to acquisition of a piece of land, anything permanently fixed to it, including buildings, structures on it and so forth; includes real estate intended to generate income for the owner; excludes real estate acquired for use by the owner. Asset acquisition, consideration transferred Asset acquisition, consideration transferred Amount of consideration transferred, consisting of acquisition-date fair value of assets transferred by the acquirer, liabilities incurred by the acquirer, and equity interest issued by the acquirer. Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common stock, dividends per share, cash paid Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Slot machines Slot machines [Member] Represents information pertaining to the video lottery, net of cash incentives services. Table games Table Games [Member] Represents information pertaining to the table game services. Poker Poker [Member] Represents information pertaining to the poker services. Food, beverage and other Food and Beverage [Member] Promotional allowances Promotional allowances [Member] Promotional items such as food beverage and free play provided to casino patrons at no charge. Gaming, food, beverage and other Gaming, food, beverage and other [Member] Gaming, food, beverage and other Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Total revenues Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Penn National Gaming, Inc. Meadows Lease Penn National Gaming, Inc. Meadows Lease [Member] Penn National Gaming, Inc. Meadows Lease Casino Queen Lease Casino Queen Lease [Member] Casino Queen Lease Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] Hollywood Casino Columbus and Hollywood Casino Toledo Hollywood Casino Columbus and Hollywood Casino Toledo [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino Columbus and Hollywood Casino Toledo. All Properties Under Master Lease, Except Hollywood Casino Columbus and Hollywood Casino Toledo All Properties Under the Penn Master Lease Except Hollywood Casino Columbus and Hollywood Casino Toledo [Member] Represents information pertaining to all properties under the Penn Master Lease, except Hollywood Casino Columbus and Hollywood Casino Toledo. Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Annual rent escalator Operating leases, annual rental escalation percentage Operating leases, annual rental escalation percentage Operating leases, frequency the property performance-based rent structure is adjusted Operating leases, frequency the property performance-based rent structure is adjusted Represents the frequency the property performance-based rent structure is adjusted under operating lease with tenant. Operating leases, percent of the average net revenues of property used to calculate rent increase Operating leases, percent of the average net revenues of property(s) used to calculate rent increase Operating leases, percent of the average net revenues of property(s) used to calculate rent increase Period used in calculation of average net revenues Lessor Leasing Arrangements Period Used in Calculation of Average Net Revenues Lessor Leasing Arrangements Period Used in Calculation of Average Net Revenues Percentage of the change in net revenues from the preceding month (of 2 facilities under the Master Lease) used for adjustment in rent structure Percentage of the Change in Net Revenues from the Preceding Month Used To Compute Monthly Rent Payments Under Penn Master Lease Represents the percentage of the change in net revenues of specified number of Hollywood Casinos in Columbus, Ohio and Toledo, Ohio during the preceding month used for adjustment in rent structure under the Penn Master Lease. Annual rent escalator over a period of time contingent upon the achievement of certain rent coverage ratio threshold (in percentage) Operating Leases, Annual Rent Escalator Over a Period of Time Contingent Upon the Achievement of Certain Rent Coverage Ratio Threshold, Percentage Operating Leases, Percentage Over a Period of Time Contingent Upon the Achievement of Certain Rent Coverage Ratio Threshold Period existing upon achievement of certain rent coverage ratio Operating Leases, Period Existing Upon Triggering Annual Rent Escalator Re-set Operating Leases, Period Existing Upon Triggering Annual Rent Escalator Re-set Amount of rent available upon achievement of certain rent coverage ratio Operating Leases, Amount of Rent Available Upon Triggering Annual Rent Escalator Re-set Operating Leases, Amount of Rent Available Upon Triggering Annual Rent Escalator Re-set Percentage at which rent escalation will be reduced upon achievement of certain threshold Operating Leases, Percentage to Which Rent Escalation Will be Reduced Upon Achievement of Certain Threshold Operating Leases, Percentage to Which Rent Escalation Will be Reduced Upon Achievement of Certain Threshold Lessor leasing arrangements, operating leases, term of contract including all reasonably assured renewal periods Lessor leasing arrangements, operating leases, term of contract including all reasonably assured renewal periods Term of the lessor's leasing arrangement, including all reasonably assured renewal periods in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Contingent revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Number of casino properties company has financial interests in Number Of Real Estate Properties, Financial Interests Number Of Real Estate Properties, Financial Interests Interest income from mortgaged real estate Interest and Fee Income, Loans, Commercial, Real Estate Supplementary Consolidating Financial Information of Parent Guarantor and Subsidiary Issuers Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedules of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliations Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Employee stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted stock awards Restricted Stock [Member] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] End Of Measurement Period Vesting End Of Measurement Period Vesting [Member] End Of Measurement Period Vesting [Member] Number of shares available for issuance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Number of awards converted per award held Spin-Off Transactions, Number of Awards Converted per Award Held Spin-Off Transactions, Number of Awards Converted per Award Held Total unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Allocated share-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allocated share based compensation expense related to dividend paid Allocated Share Based Compensation Expense Related to Dividend Paid Represents the expense recognized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, unit, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees relating to dividend paid. Number of exercisable options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted average exercise price of exercisable options outstanding (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Intrinsic value of exercisable options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Weighted average remaining contractual term of exercisable options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Remaining weighted average vesting period for recognition of unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Fair value of restricted stock awards released in period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Restricted stock awards vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Period of total shareholder return upon which the percentage of shares vesting at the end of the measurement period will be based Period of Aggregate Shareholder Return upon which Percentage of Shares Vesting at End of Measurement Period will be Based Represents the period of total shareholder return upon which the percentage of shares vesting at the end of the measurement period will be based. Period of return of the MSCI US REIT index against which total shareholder return measured Period of MSCI US REIT Index Against which Aggregate Shareholder Return Measured Represents the period of return of the MSCI US REIT index against which total shareholder return measured. Percentage of revenues from triple-net leases Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Percentage of Revenues From Triple-Net Leases Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Percentage of Revenues From Triple-Net Leases Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill Goodwill, Fair Value Disclosure Loan receivable Loans Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure Loan receivable, impairment Total assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Goodwill impairment charges Goodwill, Impairment Loss Total impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Amount Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimated fair values Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Financial assets: Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Deferred compensation plan assets Deferred compensation plan assets, fair value disclosure Fair value disclosure related to assets held under deferred compensation agreements. Mortgage loans receivable Notes Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure Financial liabilities: Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Senior unsecured credit facility Lines of Credit, Fair Value Disclosure Senior unsecured notes Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Dividends, share-based compensation Dividends, Share-based Compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Property and equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment Interest expense Deferred Tax Assets, Other Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Property and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Net: Deferred Tax Assets, Net Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received Income Taxes Paid, Net Cash paid for interest Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Consideration Transferred in Asset Acquisitions Schedule of Consideration Transferred in Asset Acquisitions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Consideration Transferred in Asset Acquisitions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Over-Allotment Option Over-Allotment Option [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] At The Market Program At The Market Program [Member] At The Market Program [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Shares authorized to be issued (in shares) Shares Authorized to Be Issued, Value, New Shares Shares Authorized to Be Issued, Value, New Shares Percentage of commission to be paid on gross sales price of shares sold At The Market Offering Program, Percentage of Commission to be Paid on Gross Sales Price of Shares Sold At The Market Offering Program, Percentage of Commission to be Paid on Gross Sales Price of Shares Sold Percentage of commission to be paid on sale price of borrowed shares of common stock At The Market Offering Program, Percentage of Commission to be Paid on Sale Price of Borrowed Shares of Common Stock At The Market Offering Program, Percentage of Commission to be Paid on Sale Price of Borrowed Shares of Common Stock Issuance of common stock (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Weighted-average price of shares issued (in dollars per share) Weighted-Average Price of Shares Issued Weighted-Average Price of Shares Issued Proceeds from issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity, net of issuance costs incurred by the entity. Common stock remaining under amount authorized to be issued (in shares) Common Stock, Value, Remaining Under Amount Authorized to be Issued Common Stock, Value, Remaining Under Amount Authorized to be Issued Shares issued (in dollars per share) Shares Issued, Price Per Share Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Deficit Statement Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Balance (in shares) Issuance of common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Issuance of common stock, shares Stock option activity Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock option activity (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Restricted stock activity Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Restricted stock activity (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Dividends paid Dividends Adoption of new revenue standard Balance Balance (in shares) Income tax penalties and interest, net of deferred income taxes Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense REIT taxable income distribution requirement REIT Taxable Income Distribution Requirement The minimum percentage of annual REIT taxable income that must be distributed to shareholders for REIT qualification. Period for which entity will not be permitted to qualify for tax treatment as real estate investment trust in case of failure to qualify as REIT in any taxable year Period for Which Entity Will Not be Permitted to Qualify for Tax Treatment as Real Estate Investment Trust in Case of Failure to Qualify as REIT in any Taxable Year Represents the period following the year during which REIT qualification is lost for which the entity will not be permitted to qualify for treatment as a real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes. Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information and Noncash Activities Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Property and Equipment Used in Operations Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Capital lease Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Unsecured $1,175 million revolver Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Unsecured term loan A Term Loan A Facility [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Term Loan A facility. Unsecured term loan A-1 Term Loan A - 1 Facility [Member] Contractual agreement to borrow up to $825 million under a term loan. $550 million 4.375% senior unsecured notes due November 2018 Senior Unsecured Notes 4.375 Percent Due 2018 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount under the senior unsecured notes at an interest rate of 4.375 percent, maturing in 2018. $1,000 million 4.875% senior unsecured notes due November 2020 Senior Unsecured Notes 4.875 Percent Due 2020 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount under the senior unsecured notes at an interest rate of 4.875 percent, maturing in 2020. $400 million 4.375% senior unsecured notes due April 2021 Senior Unsecured Notes 4.375 Percent Due 2021 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount under the senior unsecured notes at an interest rate of 4.375 percent, maturing in 2021. $500 million 5.375% senior unsecured notes due November 2023 Senior Unsecured Notes 5.375 Percent Due 2023 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount under the senior unsecured notes at an interest rate of 5.375 percent, maturing in 2023. $850 million 5.250% senior unsecured notes due June 2025 Senior Unsecured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2025 [Member] Senior Unsecured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2025 [Member] $975 million 5.375% senior unsecured notes due April 2026 Senior Unsecured Notes 5.375 Percent Due 2026 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount under the senior unsecured notes at an interest rate of 5.375 percent, maturing in 2026. $500 million 5.750% senior unsecured notes due June 2028 Senior Unsecured Notes 5.750 Percent Due 2028 [Member] Senior Unsecured Notes 5.750 Percent Due 2028 $750 million 5.30% senior unsecured notes due January 2029 Senior Unsecured Notes 5.300 Percent Due 2029 [Member] Senior Unsecured Notes 5.300 Percent Due 2029 Long-term debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total long-term debt Long-term Debt, Gross Less: unamortized debt issuance costs, bond premiums and original issuance discounts Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Total long-term debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs, bond premiums and original issuance discounts Long-term Debt Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of debt issuance costs, bond premiums and original issuance discounts Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Losses (gains) on dispositions of property Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Straight-line rent adjustments Straight Line Rent Adjustments Losses on debt extinguishment Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt (Increase) decrease, Increase (Decrease) in Operating Assets [Abstract] Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets (Decrease), increase Increase (Decrease) in Operating Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Accrued interest Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Accrued salaries and wages Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Gaming, property and other taxes Increase (Decrease) in Property and Other Taxes Payable Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital project expenditures Capital maintenance expenditures Proceeds from sale of property and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Principal payments on loan receivable Proceeds from Collection of Loans Receivable Acquisition of real estate assets Originations of mortgage loans receivable Payments to Acquire Finance Receivables Collections of principal payments on investment in direct financing lease Proceeds from Collection of Lease Receivables Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Proceeds from exercise of options, net of taxes paid related to shares withheld for tax purposes on restricted stock award vestings Proceeds (Repayments) Related to Tax Withholding On Restricted Stock Award Vestings, Net of Proceeds from Exercise of Options Proceeds (Repayments) Related to Tax Withholding On Restricted Stock Award Vestings, Net of Proceeds from Exercise of Options Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Financing costs Payments of Financing Costs Repayments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Premium and related costs paid on tender of senior unsecured notes Payments of Premium and Related Costs on Tender of Senior Unsecured Notes Payments of Premium and Related Costs on Tender of Senior Unsecured Notes Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Real estate Real Estate [Member] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Parent Guarantor Parent Company [Member] Subsidiary Issuers Subsidiary Issuer [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Supplementary condensed consolidating financial information of parent guarantor and subsidiary issuers Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Income from direct financing lease Capital Leases, Income Statement, Direct Financing Lease Revenue Real estate taxes paid by tenants Operating Leases Real Estate Taxes Paid by Tenants The total amount of revenue recognized for the period from real estate taxes paid by tenants. Operating expenses Operating Expenses [Abstract] Gaming, food, beverage and other Gaming, food, beverage and other expense This element represents the cost of generating revenues from casino operations. Also includes the cost related to generating revenue from the sale of food (prepared and cooked-to-order foodstuffs, as well as snack items) and beverages (bottled or on-tap alcoholic beverages, as well as nonalcoholic beverages like carbonated drinks, juices, energy/sports drinks, water, coffee, and tea). Real estate taxes Real Estate Tax Expense Land rights and ground lease expense Land Rights and Ground Lease Expense Amount of expense incurred and related to the amortization of land rights and ground lease rent. General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Income from operations Other income (expenses) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest income Other Nonoperating Income Losses on debt extinguishment Intercompany dividends and interest Intercompany Dividends and Interest Represents the amount of intercompany dividends and interest. This is eliminated while preparing consolidated financial statements. Total other expenses Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Net income SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] Eldorado Resorts, Inc. Eldorado Resorts, Inc. [Member] Eldorado Resorts, Inc. Boyd Gaming Corporation Boyd Gaming Corporation [Member] Boyd Gaming Corporation SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] Interest Rate SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Interest Rate Prior Liens SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Prior Lien, Amount Face Amount of Mortgage SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Carrying Amount of Mortgage SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Principal Amount of Loans Subject to Delinquent Principal or Interest SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Principal Amount of Delinquent Loans Federal income tax basis SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Federal Income Tax Basis Assets Assets [Abstract] Land rights, net Ground Leases, Net Property and equipment, used in operations, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Mortgage loans receivable Loans Receivable, Gross, Commercial, Mortgage Investment in direct financing lease, net Cash and cash equivalents Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense Goodwill Goodwill Other intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Deferred tax assets Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Other assets Other Assets Total assets Liabilities Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities Accrued interest Interest Payable Accrued salaries and wages Employee-related Liabilities Gaming, property, and other taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes Long-term debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs, bond premiums and original issuance discounts Deferred rental revenue Deferred Revenue, Leases, Net Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities Other Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock ($.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017) Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock ($.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 214,211,932 and 212,717,549 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively) Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total shareholders’ equity Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Document and Entity Information Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Dividends Declared Dividends Declared [Table Text Block] Dividends Classification Dividends Classification [Table Text Block] Dividends Classification [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Land and improvements Land and Land Improvements [Member] Furniture, fixtures, and equipment Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Property and equipment used in operations Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate [Domain] Real Estate [Domain] Rental Properties Rental Properties [Member] Rental Properties [Member] Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg IN [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Lawrenceburg, IN. Hollywood Casino Joliet Hollywood Casino Joliet IL [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Joliet, IL. Hollywood Casino Toledo Hollywood Casino Toledo OH [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Toledo, OH. Hollywood Casino Columbus Hollywood Casino Columbus OH [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at Columbus, OH. Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races WV [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, WV. Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course PA [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course, PA. M Resort M Resort NV [Member] Represents information pertaining to M Resort, NV. Zia Park Casino Zia Park Casino NM [Member] Represents information pertaining to Zia Park Casino located at Hobbs, NM. Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast MS [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast located in Bay St. Louis, MS. Argosy Casino Riverside Argosy Casino Riverside MO [Member] Represents information pertaining to Argosy Casino located at Riverside, MO. Hollywood Casino St. Louis Hollywood Casino St Louis MO [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood Casino located at St. Louis, MO. Hollywood Casino at Dayton Raceway Hollywood Casino at Dayton Raceway OH [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood at Dayton Raceway, OH. Hollywood Casino at Mahoning Valley Race Track Hollywood Casino at Mahoning Valley Race Track OH [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hollywood at Mahoning Valley Race Track, OH. Ameristar Black Hawk Ameristar Black Hawk, CO [Member] Ameristar Black Hawk, CO [Member] Ameristar Council Bluffs Ameristar Council Bluffs, IA [Member] Ameristar Council Bluffs, IA [Member] L'Auberge Baton Rouge L'Auberge Baton Rouge, LA [Member] L'Auberge Baton Rouge, LA [Member] Boomtown Bossier City Boomtown Bossier City LA [Member] Boomtown Bossier City LA [Member] Boomtown New Orleans Boomtown New Orleans LA [Member] Boomtown New Orleans LA [Member] Ameristar Vicksburg Ameristar Vicksburg MS [Member] Ameristar Vicksburg MS [Member] Ameristar Kansas City Ameristar Kansas City MO [Member] Ameristar Kansas City MO [Member] Ameristar St. Charles Ameristar St. Charles MO [Member] Ameristar St. Charles MO [Member] Jackpot Properties Jackpot Properties, NV [Member] Jackpot Properties, NV [Member] Plainridge Park Casino Plainridge Park Casino, MA [Member] Plainridge Park Casino, MA The Meadows Racetrack and Casino The Meadows Racetrack and Casino PA [Member] The Meadows Racetrack and Casino PA [Member] Casino Queen Casino Queen in East St Louis Illinois [Member] Represents information pertaining to the Casino Queen located in East St. Louis, Illinois. Tropicana Atlantic City Tropicana Atlantic City, NJ [Member] Tropicana Atlantic City, NJ Tropicana Laughlin Tropicana Laughlin, NV [Member] Tropicana Laughlin, NV GLPI Corporate Office GLPI Corporate Office [Member] GLPI Corporate Office [Member] Other owned land Other owned land [Member] Other owned land SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] Encumbrances SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances Initial Cost to Company, Land and Improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land Initial Cost to Company, Building and Improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Building and Improvements Net Capitalized Costs (Retirements) Subsequent to Acquisition SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Cost Gross Amount at which Carried at Close of Period, Land and Improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Land, Amount Gross Amount at which Carried at Close of Period, Building and Improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Building and Improvements, Amount Gross Amount at which Carried at Close of Period SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Gross Accumulated Depreciation SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation Life on which Depreciation in Latest Income Statement is Computed SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used for Depreciation Federal income tax basis SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Federal Income Tax Basis Real Estate: SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Acquisitions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Acquisition Reclass of assets from investment in direct financing lease to real estate investments (1) SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Addition Capital expenditures and assets placed in service SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Improvements Dispositions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Cost of Investment in Real Estate Sold Balance at the end of the period Accumulated Depreciation: SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Depreciation expense SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Depreciation Expense Dispositions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Investment in Real Estate Sold Balance at the end of the period Receivables Financing Receivables [Text Block] Number of Option Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Exercised (in shares) Canceled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Outstanding at end of period (in shares) Weighted- Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding at period start (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Canceled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at period end (in dollars per share) Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] September Issuance Senior Unsecured Notes 5.25% Due 2025 September Issuance Senior Unsecured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2025 [Member] September Issuance Senior Unsecured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2025 [Member] May Issuance Senior Unsecured Notes 5.25% Due 2025 May Issuance Senior Unsecured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2025 [Member] May Issuance Senior Unsecured Notes 5.250 Percent Due 2025 [Member] Triggering Event [Axis] Triggering Event [Axis] Information about a triggering event [Axis] Triggering Event [Domain] Triggering Event [Domain] [Domain] for Information about a triggering event [Axis] Change of Control Change of Control [Member] Represents information pertaining to certain change of control triggering events, as defined in the agreement. Effective interest rate percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Amount of notes tendered Debt Instrument, Amount of Notes Tendered Debt Instrument, Amount of Notes Tendered Percentage of amount outstanding in connection with tender offer Debt Instrument, Percentage of Amount Outstanding in Connection with Tender Offer Debt Instrument, Percentage of Amount Outstanding in Connection with Tender Offer Percentage of principal amount Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed Debt instrument redemption price, percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Number of days prior to maturity notes can be redeemed and receive make-whole redemption premium Number of days prior to maturity notes can be redeemed and receive make-whole redemption premium Number of days prior to maturity notes can be redeemed and receive make-whole redemption premium Number of wholly-owned subsidiary note issuers Number of Subsidiary Note Issuers Number of Subsidiary Note Issuers Schedule of Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding [Table] Schedule of Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding [Table] Schedule of Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding [Table] Schedule of Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding [Line Items] Schedule of Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding [Line Items] [Line Items] for Schedule of Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding [Table] Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Assumed conversion (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Real Estate Investments Real Estate Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] GLP Capital, L.P. GLP Capital, L.P. [Member] GLP Capital, L.P. [Member] GLP Financing II, Inc. GLP Financing II, Inc. [Member] GLP Financing II, Inc. [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations Ownership percentage of subsidiaries by parent company Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Assets Intercompany loan receivable Intercompany Loan Receivable Represents the amount of intercompany loan receivable during the reporting period. Intercompany transactions and investment in subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Income taxes Accrued Income Taxes Intercompany loan payable Intercompany Loan Payable Represents the amount of intercompany loan payable during the reporting period. Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Shareholders’ equity (deficit) Retained accumulated (deficit) earnings Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Off-Market Favorable Lease Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-lived intangible assets, land rights, remaining amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period Land rights Ground Leases, Gross Less accumulated amortization Ground Leases, Accumulated Amortization Amortization expense, land rights Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total Schedule of Components of Direct Financing Lease Investments Schedule of Components of Direct Financing Lease Investments [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Schedule of Components of Direct Financing Lease Investments [Table] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Net Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Penn National Gaming Inc Penn National Gaming Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Penn National Gaming, Inc. Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration risk, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Number of facilities whose real estate property is included in entity portfolio Number of Facilities whose Real Estate Property is Included in Entity Portfolio Represents the number of facilities whose real property is included in the entity's portfolio as of the balance sheet date. Number of states across which the portfolio of properties is diversified Number of States in which Entity Operates Income from operations Earnings per common share: Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Hollywood Casino Baton Rouge, LA Hollywood Casino Baton Rouge, LA [Member] Hollywood Casino Baton Rouge, LA Mortgage Loans: SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Movement in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period New mortgage loans SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, New Mortgage Loan Collections of principal SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Collections of Principal Balance at the end of the period Schedule of estimated fair values of financial assets and liabilities Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Schedule of assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of property, plant and equipment, useful lives Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the useful life of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Schedule of reconciliation of the weighted-average common shares outstanding used in the calculation of basic EPS to the weighted-average common shares outstanding used in the calculation of diluted EPS Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Schedule of calculation of basic and diluted EPS for the Company's common stock Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Future Rental Payments Receivable Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable Straight-Line Rent Adjustments Real Estate Investment Property, Net [Abstract] 2019 Straight Line Rent Adjustments, Current Straight Line Rent Adjustments, Current 2020 Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Two Years Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Two Years 2021 Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Three Years Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Three Years 2022 Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Four Years Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Four Years 2023 Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Five Years Straight Line Rent Adjustments, in Five Years Thereafter Straight Line Rent Adjustments, Thereafter Straight Line Rent Adjustments, Thereafter Total Straight Line Rent Adjustments, Net Straight Line Rent Adjustments, Net Future Base Ground Rents Receivable Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, Current Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, Current 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, In Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable, Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable Operating Leases, Future Minimum Base Ground Payments Receivable Future Income to be Recognized Related to Operating Leases Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, Current Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, Current 2020 Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized, Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized Operating Leases, Future Income to Be Recognized Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Hollywood Casino Perryville, MD Hollywood Casino Perryville, MD [Member] Hollywood Casino Perryville, MD Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance, Goodwill Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Impairment losses Ending Balance, Goodwill Earnings per common share: Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Table] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Table] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Line Items] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Line Items] Reclass of assets from investment in direct financing lease to real estate investments Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Business and Basis of Presentation Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Segment Information Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Schedule detailing information related to organization, basis of accounting, or basis of presentation, used to prepare the financial reports of the entity. Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Domain] Real Estate Loan Real Estate Loan [Member] Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items] Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items] Payments to acquire real estate, exclusive of transaction fees Payments to Acquire Real Estate, Excluding Transaction Costs Payments to Acquire Real Estate, Excluding Transaction Costs Payments to acquire mortgage notes receivable Area of real estate property Area of Real Estate Property Real estate, occupancy percentage Real estate, occupancy percentage Represents the occupancy percentage of the real estate properties owned by the entity. Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Real estate investments, net Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, real estate investments, net Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, real estate investments, net Land rights, net Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, land rights, net Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, land rights, net Investment in direct financing lease, net Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, investment in direct financing lease, net Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, investment in direct financing lease, net Prepaid expenses Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, prepaid expenses Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, prepaid expenses Other assets Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, other assets Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, other assets Total purchase price Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed Asset acquisitions, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Calculation of basic EPS: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Less: Net income allocated to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Basic Net income attributable to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Calculation of diluted EPS: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Number of Award Shares Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Future minimum repayments of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2020 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2021 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2022 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2023 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Over 5 years Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total minimum payments Land improvements Land Improvements [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Useful life used for property, plant, and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Cash GLPI common stock Fair value of total consideration transferred Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options Activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Awards Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Performance-Based Restricted Stock Awards Activity Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares Award Outstanding Activity [Table Text Block] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Base Rate Base Rate [Member] Senior unsecured credit facility Line of Credit [Member] Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Line of credit facility, available borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Receivables [Abstract] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Secured Debt Secured Debt [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Stated interest rate percentage Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Intercompany Increase Decrease in Intercompany Receivables The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in intercompany receivables. Income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Premium and related costs paid on tender of senior unsecured notes Intercompany financing Payments of Intercompany Loan Amount of cash outflow in the form of intercompany loan. Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined contribution plan, employer matching contribution, percent of match Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Defined contribution plan, employer matching contribution, percent of employees' gross pay Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Defined contribution plan, employer discretionary contribution amount Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Deferred compensation arrangement employer contribution vesting period Deferred Compensation Arrangement Employer Contribution Vesting Period Represents the period after which employer's contribution vest under the non-qualified deferred compensation plan. Deferred compensation arrangement with individual, employer contribution Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Contributions by Employer Deferred compensation plan liabilities Deferred Compensation Liability, Current Deferred compensation plan assets Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Number of Employees, Total Number of Employees, Total [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Unionized Employees Concentration Risk Unionized Employees Concentration Risk [Member] Labor Agreements [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Agreements with SEATU Union number of employees Agreement with SEATU Union Number of Employees Represents the number of employees in the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trade Union with whom the agreements have been made. Threshold number of employees under agreement for separate disclosure of unions (more than) Threshold Number of Employees Under Agreement for Separate Disclosure of Unions Represents the threshold number of employees for separate disclosure of the unions representing employees. Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Real estate investments Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Total real estate investments Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost Less accumulated depreciation Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation Real estate investments, net Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax (benefit) expense Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred Real Estate Investments, Net [Abstract] Life used for depreciation of real estate assets, buildings and improvements