The weather in Philadelphia varies from season to season with cool, wet winters that sometimes see snowfall. Snow cover does not stay long and daytime temperatures usually are above freezing, even in winter, melting any snow. While snow is on the ground or when the temperature does reach below freezing, walkways can be icy for pedestrians and should be avoided. Rain is frequent in Philadelphia and waterproof jackets and footwear are required for frequent dog walkers in the Mill Creek neighborhood. Summers are hot and humid and walking with your pet on muggy days can be taxing. Planning walks for cooler times of the day will be better for you and your pet.
Most residences in the neighborhood are row houses and many residential streets are narrow lanes. There are also some apartment complexes in the community. There are no steep hills in the neighborhood, but some gentle inclines. Public and private properties are well landscaped and there are large shade trees in the community. A stretch of Lancaster Avenue runs at an angle in the northeast end of Mill Creek and has trolley tracks running along it providing public transportation to the area.
West Mill Creek Playground has an open field surrounded by trees and a ball diamond. When sports teams are not using the open area, pet owners often play with their dogs in the park. Also located in Mill Creek is the park of the same name. Mill Creek Playground has basketball courts, an outdoor pool, playground, and a spray park. Dogs are not permitted on playgrounds, but can enjoy other areas of the park on a leash.
Clara Muhammad Square is located in the north of the community. This green space has lots of shade trees, pedestrian paths, and a seating area. West Fairmount Park is a short distance to the north and this large park has multiple greenways, trees, open spaces, and natural and recreational areas. Special facilities like an open air theatre, Japanese gardens, and a museum are also present in the park and add special interest to this sprawling green space.