There are two options for viewing a launch from Cape Canaveral: Pay to enter Kennedy Space Center (KSC), or watch the launch for free from a public space. The above choice will dictate what information you need to be aware of.
1) From KSC:
KSC long ago monetized launch viewing. Here is the link to their page with a thorough description of everything you need to know in order to view the launch:
How to watch a rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center
Pros of going to KSC:
- Closest possible viewing for the general public
- Get to see all the other cool stuff at KSC (the museum is top notch)
Cons include:
- Costs money.
- Very crowded during summer season (and especially launch days)
- All day event
- Launch could get scrubbed
2) From a public space outside of KSC:
You can see the vehicle climb, see the exhaust and hear the boom from just about anywhere in north Brevard county. The list of public places you can go that you can see the pad is much smaller. Here is an excellent list of places to go (not all of them can see pad 39A however):
List of convenient public viewing places outside of KSC
The only two places I know you can see (with binoculars) the vehicle on the ground is:
Pros of watching from a public space:
- Quick; can just 'show up'.
- Cheap
- Only option for night launches.
- Lots of options, many near restaurants and other conveniences.
Cons for public spaces:
- Only a few places the liftoff isn't obscured by trees or buildings.
- need binoculars to really enjoy it.