Many people have contributed great comments so I'll only add a few quick thoughts. When I first started out, I did visual work only and felt somewhat disappointed. I still struggle with the constellations, so at the time, finding different objects was tough. Then I started sketching what I could see and the objects came to life.
After a while I traded telescope and bought a computerised GoTo version that could handle low/mid quality photography (using just my mid level Canon DSLR). I no longer sketch, as now I can see more of the universe in a reasonably short period of time.
The other thing I like to do is watch the sun, so I bought a small filter for my telescope. I also bought some cheap eclipse glasses so I can grab a quick glance at the sun without taking the telescope out. I can see the disk and sun spots, however you can also buy better solar telescopes that enable you to see flares etc.
In short, 2 extra areas that many go into are: sketching & solar
PS. There's many enjoyable things to learn. Some of which, I've learnt, requires patience and practice. Also, the best telescope is the one you'll use the most. I wish I'd learnt that nugget of info a long time ago!
