First off, do your research.
Second, do go to the dealership armed with all of your information, and don't back down. If you don't like the way they treat you, go somewhere else.

I would try to have some idea of what you are looking for when you go in--like if you go to a Ford dealer, tell them you want to see the Escape, or a Jeep dealer, tell them you want to see the Cherokee or whatever it is you would like. Some of them can be quick talkers, and could have you down the road in something you may not be crazy about.

As far as what day to go in, the last day of the month does NOT guarantee you a better deal, because most dealers actually count the month ahead a bit. So their last day may be the 25th or 26th, although I do think that is a bunch of crap. Maybe some places are going for quota, but they shouldn't be pushing you into buying something just to meet their quota. Not a respectable dealer anyway.

As far as getting good deals, some of these dealers are offering some great offers right now--but don't buy a car because of the deal they are offering, make sure it is a car you want.

If you go to look at a Honda at all, they don't run any of these 0% gimmicks like everyone else does, so don't even bother asking!!

My husband sells cars for honda, and he loves it when people know what they want, and have all of their information.

As far as a recommendation on a car, it really sounds like you want an SUV. I would do a Nissan Pathfinder, X Terra, Toyota 4-Runner, Honda CRV or Pilot, Volkswagen Toureg, or BMW X5, or X3.

If you need any information from the "inside", feel free to pm me, and I can ask my husband some questions for you.