I think US 1 in Titusville is a better vantage point if you have no pass to get into KSC. It is closer than Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral. Even at 12 miles from the launch pad you get a pretty good view. I saw one launch from Titusville way back in 1989 and the view was good once the shuttle cleared the ground haze. Assuming it is a clear night tonight though you can see the vehicle right on the pad. The only real drawback is you won’t hear any sound until about T-90 seconds. Having seen several other launches from the press or VIP sites I can tell you it is more exciting to hear that roar as soon as the shuttle clears the pad. ;) But if you have to watch from Titusville I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Titusville will be a quicker trip back to Mousetown too won’t it?
thanks for the advice on the launch!