I'll tell you a little bit about my scope and why I chose it. The dobsonian mounting is a very simple but stable mount. The trade off, it cannot track objects but sets up in seconds. I have found the backyard is a good site for casual nightly observing. I do have light pollution to contened with but it hasn't hindered my enjoyment.
Nothing beats a dark sky however.
Faint, hard to find objects, jump out at you. Your site should have a dark, clear view of most of the sky. Apmospheric conditions are something to be contended with at any site. Some Observing Tips Allow the telescope to cool down. This may take some time depending on the type of scope.