TSA clearance is not needed, but you must have an FAA certificate. Getting a 61.75 "based on" certificate is straightforward but takes some time, so not an option if you haven't already got one.
Car rental for a few days is much more practical. You need to be very well prepared for flying in and finding a rental aircraft for the purpose may not be easy.
Expedia (UK) often gets good car rental deals and you'll have mobility when you get there. Last time I drove, I took in a side trip to the Harley factory in Milwaukee.
3 hours from Chicago is probably more realistic, longer if you do it at the wrong time.