Checking out the neighbors
Space.com has a good article on catching Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn in the evening sky. You don't need a telescope, they are all quite visible with the naked eye and you can even see a little detail with binoculars.
However, I think checking out a plant through a telescope—even an inexpensive one—is quite an experienence. I remember the first time I saw Jupiter with two moons lined up on each side. The minute I could recognize the banding, it all sank in. I am looking at another world! It was enough to keep me outside in 5 degree weather for several hours.
If you are thinking astronomy as a hobby, this is a great time to start, and planets are great objects to start with.
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