Replying to Lookin to finally upgrade my kit lens

after looking through the forum, I found this in the stickies. essentially, over the last few years I've stuck to the kit lens for my nikon d3000. I'm looking to upgrade to a good "overall" lens- something I can take hiking, or out with friends, or on vacation. shooting anything from landscapes to portraits. will not be used for video (obviously) or skiing. I'll try to answer the following questions if that helps.

essentially looking for a good all around lens for my d3000. if it's third party, I'll need some info on what adapters are required because I'm more than ignorant on that.

Lens Buying Guide

First, start with your budget. How much money do you have to spend?

between 400-1000, shooting for under 700 though.

Second, what kind of lens do you need? What will you be using it for?
Wide (sub 28mm), standard(28mm-85mm), telephoto(85mm+), all around zoom, tele zoom, wide zoom.

definitely does not have to be wide. don't need much zoom, but some would be nice.

Do you want something that is fast (good in low light)?
If yes, you probably want to go with a prime because they offer a faster f stop. If no, you could probably go with a zoom.

probably needs to be ok in low light. don't plan on that being my target level of shooting, but for an all-around lens it should be able to take some pictures with the sun low

Do you want a prime or a zoom?
zooms have more flexibility, primes have a longer focus throw and are usually faster than zooms

I like the flexibility of zooms, but if the prime is super super nice at a decent price, I wouldn't be completely deterred

What lenses do you already have?

kit lens, nikkor fisheye I got on here.

Do you mind using a full manual lens?
If you don't, buying an older lens will save you money while still getting a superb piece of glass. Some people want a lens that works with Canon's autofocus system for photography.

don't have much experience. if it's something I can learn and pick up, wouldn't at all be opposed.

Thanks in advance

Zach