What are some good brands of cameras to buy in store?

I want to buy a new camera and I'm having trouble choosing one. I mostly use my cameras to take pictures of my family and to make videos of them. I also like to take pictures of downtown- Chicago (especially at night) and other places I go to like Six Flags or the beach (daytime). What are some good camera brands out there right now and where can I buy it? I want something with good quality but that doesn't cost much. Please help! (My first camera was a Kodak [$200] and my second was a Olympus [$400]). I want something new for my birthday(: Are the Nikons and Canons any good or is there a better brand?