A system and method for retrieving both public and private location-based messages. The system and method utilize location-based services and processing to determine when the mobile device has arrived at, is in the vicinity of, is dwelling at, and has left a particular location and then can deliver private messages based upon this information and other user specified criteria. Additionally upon arrival at new location, the mobile device will query a server to determine if there is any category specific public information related to this new location.