Ok, after posting that, I figure out that if I actually SPELL Hessich Oldendorf right, Travelocity will find me hotel rooms in the area.
I booked a room at the Mercure in Hameln. I have stayed at that chain before, and paid a little bit more for a room I can cancel with no fee up until 6pm the night of the first stay (in case I find something better).
Looking on Mapquest, it appears it is amybe 12-14 kms from HO. And I see railway tracks.
Does anyone know if a train runs between those towns? If so, do they have a website with schedules. I may be driving a vintage VW that is not mine, so I do not presume that the owner would want me to drive it to Hameln for the evenings.
Thanks...