So after mapping with Google, Mapquest & AAA, it looks like the I-74 option is about 30 minutes longer than going thru Chicago (on a good day).
The UP route is appealing for being different, but all mapping software says it's 1-2 hrs longer so that doesn't work for this particular trip because of time constraints -- unless someone knows something I don't about this route.

Looks like I'm buying an I-pass.  I'll let everyone know how that works out as part of the trip report!
Thanks.
-Tom

And...Bill: Thanks just saw that; 53 for sure - always have done that...and I-65 has that cool wind farm now!  :)

I guess the one thing I'm left with is this: what's the best way THROUGH Chicago, now that I can quickly pay the tolls?

90 the whole way? (as Google says)
or use 80/94? ; 294?  (as Mapquest does)
or over to 355  Arghh!!! ????

So many choices!!!