I was born in Boston, and though I have spent a decent amount of time in Alaska--thought of moving there after a three month visit but ended up buying a place in northern Newfoundland--and doing lots and lots of photography in Alaska, I am certainly no Majik. (Majik, What the heck are you doing up there?)
My two recommendations:
Denali is one of the most incredible places on the planet, either the first or the second most amazing place in North America along with Yellowstone. I have been there most of August and into Sept., which can be gorgeous and clear. The longer you spend there, the more there is to see. Wolves, grizzlies, caribou just starting the rut, and this mountain that you have to tilt your head to look up at from 26 miles away. It also takes you a few days to overcome the grizzley fear/lack of trails before you dayhike into the tundra and the hills. You cannot spend too much time at Denali. Let me repeat that: You cannot spend too much time at Denali.
Second, Drive up the Haul Road to Prodhue Bay. There's really nothing in Coldfoot except the faintest dollop of civilization or in Wiseman, but you are just going to stay there maybe. You do get to drive across the Arctic Circle, over the Brooks Range, and see unbelievable scenery, particularly once you cross the Yukon, and maybe lots of wildlife. And you can just walk into the hills at the crest of Brooks Range--Atigun Pass if my memory serves--overlooking the vast flat coastal plain. Spectacular and once in a life-time experience.
Just my two cents.