I don't think I would play as much if it weren't for clubs, it's one of my favourite tools in the franchise to be honest, and I love adding new clubs with each new pack.
I wish they added more club activities and club icons as well though (not just icons, but door swatches, objects & club outfits)--and just expanded on it in general.
The best part about clubs is exactly what you're doing; filling up the worlds and adding another layer to the neighborhoods.
Almost every lot in my save file has at least one club that is attached to it, that gathers there regularly, and it makes each one feel distinct.