I think a huge telescope just might be the most practical means of exploring these systems. :)
There are some big telescopes in the works. Seems like there’s one that will be better than 30 meters when complete. From what I’ve read it will be ground based and use adaptive optics but is expected to give us our first direct views of some of the exoplanets.
Aside from that I think we should be working on better propulsion. Something that could get us to mars in a week would be a nice goal to shoot for.