Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Document and Entity Information Document

v2.4.0.6
Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Jan. 31, 2012
Jun. 30, 2011
Document Information [Line Items]      
Entity Registrant Name TANGER FACTORY OUTLET CENTERS INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0000899715    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 2,137,697
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2011    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   90,781