I'll think you'll find that everyone is pretty loyal to their brand. (ie ... Their current pop up) I figure that it would be more important to find one with the options you want, and in decent shape. I've had Coleman and I now have a Starcraft. When I was getting rid of my 1988, I walked into a deal on the Starcraft that I couldn't pass up. The most important thing to remember is the condition vs. the price. I personally never buy brand new, because it's a minimum 3 k hit off the lot...
Options can vary widely, you need AC if you're down south, or intend to do Dsiney World or the beach etc... The Furnace is loud, but if you have electric on your site, you can use ceramic heaters.
Mine is completely loaded, and I use it much the way you describe... Summer is a week trip to an amusement park, another week at a state park, and occassional weekends. I also take 1 fishing trip, and 2 hunting trips with friends. One thing to remember in the fall/winter for hunting, is that the canvas/plastic windows do get stiff, and you can break the plastic windows when packing up, if you turn off inside heat too soon.
You can't go wrong if you find one with good canvas and low use. My Starcraft was 2 years old and was used 3 times before the owner traded up to a hardside 36' trailer. I called him before I bought his trade at the dealer and he talked to me about why he traded etc.. The dealer was asking $6900.00 and I was able to get it for $5100.00 cash. The guy paid $11300.00 for it new, he sent me his original paperwork. The guy supposedly was credited 7500 on his trade, but I figure that he got closer to 4 K in real money. The Starcraft I bought has AC - Furnace - Hot and Cold Water - Shower - Cassette Toilet (Hi Tech porta pottie) - Refrigerator - Stove etc.... I would've been crazy to walk away from it. You and your family will have incredible memories from it, and it'll definately be cheaper than hotels... If I can help, let me know !!