We're doing a Mag Mile shopping trip on an upcoming weekday, arriving at Union Station at 9:30am. What is the quickest bus route to Michigan Ave? I see there is a bus 125 Watertower Express, but does it run as late as 9:30 or 10:00am? Please give details on where to board bus, etc. Thanks!

You can get bus schedules in PDF here:

http://www.transitchicago.com/maps/bus/bus.html

If I'm reading this correctly, looks like the last northbound 125 Express leaves Union Station at 9.39am, then there isn't service until the afternoon. Too late for your arrival.

Otherwise, take the 151 bus from U. Station to wherever you want to get off on Mag Mile.

I suggest using the CTA's trip planner, or hopstop.com, for your trip.

Taxis just don't cost that much. Take one to the lower end of the Mag Mile, use the 151 if you want to go up and down it.

If you want to do something a little different, I would suggest taking the Chicago Water Taxi. From Union Station walk along the riverwalk until you get to Madison. You will see the signs for the water taxi. Go down the stairs to the dock. Boats run every 12-15 minutes. You would get off at the Michigan Avenue dock. The one way fare is $2/person. I have taken the water taxi numerous times and find it a relaxing and scenic way to get around.

I don't know the bus routes well, but my coworkers who take the train into Union Stations say it's nearly impossible to get to Michigan Avenue easily via public transportation. They all take cabs to our office.