A bit OT, but you used to be able to call any of the space centers PR depts and request a pass for shuttle launches - gratis. It would allow you to drive onto the causeway between Kennedy (NASA side) and Canaveral (Air Force side) on the day of the launch. I don't know if that's allowed now, after 9/11/01.
If you've never seen a launch close up, and you're in the general area (Orlando is only about an hour away) it's an amazing sight. You feel the launch in your chest as much as hear it if you're close. Even if there isn't a launch scheduled, drop by the visitors center one afternoon and take the tour. It's a few bucks, but you get to see a great deal of the center. I'll personally vouch for the tour - it's a good one - and I've seen most of "cool" stuff at KSC from the inside (never got to sit in the crew compartment of the shuttle, tho).