Book early for better prices... I got a round trip ticket for $250 from Toronto to Ottawa. On the way there it was very good. The staff on board were wonderful, very pleasant caring and just made the trip wonderful. Apparently they had upgraded my seat without my knowledge. The temperature and wifi were perfect!!! On way home it was a bit disappointing. The seats were a bit dirty... I have dust allergies and had a headache the whole way back. The staff were mediocre which added nothing to the trip. And wouldn't serve any beverages with an hour left on our trip. They did say I could upgrade, for a $$$ fee without a meal. But for that price I could have jumped on a flight. Not sure I would recommend the train... Just it's a gamble, you willing to roll the dice?!?!
Plus, if your train is full good luck getting on the wifi in your car.