Hi Jon,
A 6 or 8 inch Dobsonian is the best way to go.
$500 will get you a complete package. I don't know where you are, but check out this site...
https://www.bintelshop.com.au/welcome.htm
They're very easy to use and she'll see all of the things she wants to see and more, including galaxies and nebulas.
They need to be collimated but it's easy to learn.
And don't forget to tell her about this wonderful forum. She can ask any questions she likes, no matter how noob, and the good folk here will shower her with help.
Happy hunting.
